ST. LOUIS – Albert Pujols rewarded an adoring crowd by returning to Busch Stadium, getting a home run, and sent the Los Angeles Dodgers a 7-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals. Louis Cardinals Tuesday night.
Justin Turner scored two goals at home and Will Smith also beat the Dodgers, who won for the sixth time in eight games. Saint Louis has lost four in a row.
Pujols, 41, made a second appearance at Busch Stadium after playing at St. Louis. Louis from 2001 to 2011. Pujols gave a 40-second standing ovation. dish to prolong the joy. They had a brief hug before Pujols intervened. Pujols quickly punched JA Happ’s fourth shot in a line above the wall on the left. It was his 679th national career and 17th of the season.
“It’s one of those things we hope can happen,” Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said. “But the probability is very unlikely. Getting a standing ovation and then making a first hit in the first bat-bat. Storybook. I firmly believe the game honors you. The way Albert played the game for so long, from the right way, is the path I had to follow. “
Pujols tried to minimize the moment.
“When it happens, just let it go,” he said. “It’s part of the game. Embrace the moment. But try not to get too hooked.”
His teammates had no problem enjoying the special moment.
“It was pretty surreal,” Turner said. “Lots of fun for everyone in the stadium, not just for Albert. Every time he hits a home run, you’re watching the story.”
The ten-time All-Star provoked a similar reaction when he returned to St. Louis. Louis with Los Angeles Angels for the first time in 2019. He received a standing ovation in all 12 appearances in the series, including a one-minute tribute on his first trip to the plate. He also scored in the first game of this series.
Pujols, who did not play in the series opener Monday night, went 1-on-4. First baseman signed a ten-year deal with the Angels after the 2011 season, and then joined the Dodgers. last May.
The information from The Associated Press was used in this report.