The Cardinals endured Interleague play going 2-10 in the last 12 games against American League Central teams. The only encouraging events from the stint was getting Albert Pujols back from the disabled list and maintaining a slim lead over the Reds in the National League Central. The Braves made sure St. Louis’ return to the NL wasn’t any easier, beating the Cardinals 6-3 Monday.

After trailing 3-0, Atlanta busted open with a five-run third inning that included three home runs. Marcus Giles and Edgar Renteria went back-to-back before rain suspended the game. A little precipitation couldn’t cool off the Braves bats. They returned from the delay and scored three more runs including a two-run homer from Brian McCann.

John Smoltz won his fifth game of the year allowing three runs on seven hits in six innings. Chad Poronto, Kenny Ray, and Jorge Sosa combined to pitch three innings of scoreless ball with Sosa earning the save.

Anthony Reyes (1-3) gave up five runs in five innings and walked three. He surrendered most of his damage on the three Brave’s homers. Reliever Josh Kinney made his major league debut and it didn’t start out as one to remember. Kinney’s first pitch ever in the big leagues was blasted over the right field wall by Ryan Langerhans.

The loss is the 11th in the last 13 games for the Redbirds and their seventh straight on the road.

Albert Pujols homered for the 27th time this season.