Jupiter, Fla. (KMOV) - Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols will return to the lineup today when the Redbirds face the visiting Houston Astros at Roger Dean Stadium.
Pujols, held out the past five days with an aggravated lower back, will bat in his usual third spot.
Outfielder Matt Holliday continues to rest his sprained intercostal muscles - muscles running between the ribs - and will not play.
Other than Holliday and Brendan Ryan's absence, the lineup looks close to what you will see on Opening Day.
On the mound for the Cardinals is ace Chris Carpenter, who's making his second appearance of spring training.
St. Louis Cardinals:
1. Skip Schumaker, 2B
2. Felipe Lopez, 3B
3. Albert Pujols, 1B
4. Colby Rasmus, CF
5. Ryan Ludwick, RF
6. Yadier Molina, C
7. Julio Lugo, SS
8. Allen Craig, DH
9. Joe Mather, LF
Pitchers: Chris Carpenter, Rich Hill, Ryan Franklin, Trever Miller, Jason Motte
Houston Astros:
1. M. Bourn, CF
2. K. Matsui, 2B
3. Towles, C
4. Michals, RF
5. Sullivan, LF
6. Johnson, 3B
7. Shelton, 1B
8. Manzella, SS
9. Y. Ramirez, DH
Pitcher: Paulino
