July 8 Recap: So close, again

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY SportsThe Cardinals lost a close one tonight (2016 record in one-run games: 5-42). But in a weird way -- despite several injuries (which looked minor, but you never know), a bunch of men left on base by the Cards, and y'know, losing the game -- this was an okay game, with things to feel good about.

Chris Carter (it happens) opened the scoring with a solo homer tonight, but the Cards strung together singles after Jimmy Nelson walked Michael Wacha in the 3rd, and scratched out a couple of runs to take a 2-1 lead. It could have been more (two pop-ups followed those singles to end the frame), but it was 2-1 at that point, Nelson was throwing a lot of pitches, and things…