ST LOUIS — With the team leading 6-0 in the third inning, Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol tapped into his aggressive instincts and opted to use the Dominican. Albert Pujols As a pinch hitter with the bases loaded and a left-handed pitcher on the mound.
As he has throughout his 22-year major league career, Pujols responded, though this time he did it in a way that was uniquely his own.
Not only did he hit his 690th career home run, but it was the Dominican’s 16th grand slam. With this, Pujols tied Hank Aaron, Babe Ruth and Dave Kingman for 10th in Grand Slams.
Additionally, it was the sixth homer the Dominican delivered as a pinch hitter, but it was the first with the bases loaded.
It was Pujols’ third homer in his last four games. Sunday, The two are connectedIt was his 63rd career meet with at least two shots, tying Willie Mays for fifth in history.
“It’s about executing in a good moment like Sunday,” Pujols said. beat the Rockies 13-0. “I’m glad I responded and helped the guys win. Hopefully we can continue to play like we have throughout the month.”
Now, with 690 homers, he’s just six behind Dominican Alex Rodriguez and 10 short of 700. Barry Bonds (762), Aaron (755) and Ruth (714) are the only players to surpass that number.
When Pujols was asked what he had to do to get back next season, the receiver and his best friend, Puerto Rican Yadier Molina, shouted “One more year! One more year! One more year!” from a nearby locker, prompting Pujols to laugh.
“Sure, I’ll be here for another year. I’m coming to see Yadi and Viano (Aden Wainwright),” Pujols joked, though the 40-year-old Molina also said this was his last season. “I came and joked, ‘Why don’t you back off?’ I’m going to ask. But I’ll definitely be here… watching these guys from the stands. I am sure of that”.
