The Atlanta Braves (83-67) dropped their series opener with St. Louis Monday night 11-6, but still hold a 6.5-game lead in the race for the National League Eastern Division title with a Phillies loss to the Mets.
The Nationals also dimmed their own hopes, losing 8-5 to the Marlins. They are now 7 behind in the Wild Card chase with 11 to play.
There were runs and hits a plenty for both teams with the Cardinals drawing first blood in the top of the first inning off Mike Foltynewicz to go up 3-0, thanks to a bounty of walks.