It didn’t mean as much as Albert Pujols’ home run off of Brad Lidge in 2005 National League Championship Series, but it was dramatic none the less. After Carlos Lee hit a two run homer in the top of the ninth to go up 3-1, the Cardinals got to Brad Lidge once again.
After a single to Miguel Cairo and a walk to Ryan Ludwick, Tony LaRussa called on Albert Pujols to pinch hit for David Ecstein. LaRussa made the right call as Pujols singled home Cairo. Pujols who can’t play the field or run because of his sore left calf was lifted for a pinch runner. After falling behind 1-2 in the count, Rick Ankiel fouled off three nasty pitches from Lidge before delivering a game winning triple down the right field line for the 4-3 decision.
Todd Wellemeyer pitched well, going five innings, giving up one hit, one walk, and striking out five.