It was a done deal, but to the Cardinals getting a win on Monday night was a necessary detail. The Cubs 5-2 loss to the Marlins assured St. Louis of a National League Central title, leaving the Cardinals’ 7-3 victory over the Brewers an added bonus. After missing the chance to clinch at home on Sunday, the team doused each other with champagne in the clubhouse Monday. Starting pitcher Matt Morris said, “We knew we had it but it’s nice to finish it off the right way.” Morris lasted five innings, but got the no decision. Julian Tavarez got the victory in relief and Jason Isringhausen earned his 43rd save of the season after his teammates broke a 4-4 tie in the top of the ninth with a three-run rally. First baseman Albert Pujols drove in two runs. He’s glad they won the N.L. Central title, but he said a division championship isn’t their goal, “Whatever you do during the season, it doesn’t matter if you lose in the first round or second round.” The Cardinals have 13 games left in the regular season, before gearing up for their divisional series. Catcher Mike Matheny isn’t worried about a let down, in the remaining games, even though their ticket to the playoffs is set. “ It’s all about confidence and it’s all about doing things right all the time and there’s no reason why shouldn’t do it the rest of the season.”
