The St. Louis Cardinals couldn't get past their natural enemy, Houston Astros starter Bud Norris, but despite losing to the worst team in the National League they retain a 1.5 game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central, taking a 37-26 record into the end of their series in Houston. The Cincinnati Reds, who continue to struggle, sit at 32-31, five games out of first place and just a half-game ahead of the surprising Pittsburgh Pirates. With Albert Pujols slugging again, the Cardinals have a chance to make an early-summer push in mid-June.
The Brewers continue their strong run on the back of great offensive performances from Jonathan Lucroy, Price Fielder, Rickie Weeks, Ryan Braun, and Corey Hart, despite Zack Greinke's strange start. The Cardinals have looked strong in spite of injuries to Matt Holliday and Kyle McClellan, who are both expected back in the middle of June.
For a complete look at the MLB standings, check out MLB.com's expanded standings page. For daily looks at the St. Louis Cardinals' place in the NL Central, visit SB Nation's Cardinals community, Viva El Birdos