Jim Edmonds isn’t saying his slump is over, but he did break out with a big hit. Edmonds launched a 3-run homer in the 4th inning, sending the Cardinals on their way to a 7-4 win over Pittsburgh. Edmonds had been in a 3 for 28 slide before the homer. Garrett Stehpenson earned his 14th win of the year, despite giving up two-run homers to Jason Kendall and Brian Giles. Pirate starter Kris Benson had beaten the Cardinals twice this season, allowing just 3 runs in 16 innings, but he lasted just 3 and 1/3 innings, allowing 6 runs on 7 hits and 3 walks. Ray Lankford also homered for the Cardinals, who are still 7 and 1/2 up on the Reds.
