The Cardinals followed their series split with the Reds, giving a half-hearted effort and losing to the worst team in the National League. Pirates starter Zach Duke threw a complete-game, giving up just one run on eight hits and striking out 7, helping Pittsburgh to a 7-1 win.
Duke was tremendous on the mound, but he did receive some help offensively as well. Jason Bay was 3-for-4 with an RBI. Nate McLouth homered and had 3-RBI.
Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols had half of their eight hits. No other Cardinal had more than one.
Losing pitcher Jeff Suppan allowed five runs on eight hits in 5.1 innings.
Scott Rolen didn’t play for the Cards; he’s still recovering from back spasms.
Jeff Weaver is scheduled to start tonight for the Birds against Ian Snell for the Pirates.
