A pitcher’s duel last night at Busch goes to the Atlanta Braves as they beat the Cardinals 1 to 0.  It was the first time since July 20 th   that the Cardinals have lost a series opening game. 

The only run of the game would come in the top of the second.  After starter Joel Pinero allowed a lead off single and a double, the Braves Omar Infante hit a grounder to Brendan Ryan, who thought about coming home, but instead threw to first where the umpire ruled that Albert Pujols was off the base.  Atlanta’s Brian McCann scored on the play. 

An off night for the potent Cardinal offense as they would leave runners in scoring position with two outs, seven different times.

Cards starter Joel Pinero threw for seven innings, giving up just one run on five hits while striking out seven.  But Braves starter Jair Jurrjens was just a bit better as he would go eight innings, giving up six hits while striking out seven.

Game two of the series is this afternoon with Kyle Lohse getting the start for the Cardinals against the Braves Tim Hudson.  First pitch is set for 3:10.