Albert Pujols is hinting that he could return Tuesday for the Cardinals' game against the Reds, which would mean that his return from a fractured wrist would be several weeks ahead of schedule.
↵Normally, this wouldn't be relevant to Pittsburgh sports fans, and if you asked, I'd say you should check out Viva El Birdos for any Cardinals-related news. But with the Pirates just 1.5 games behind the Cardinals for the division lead, Pujols' return could have a big impact.
↵Pujols will, of course, take over at first base, with Lance Berkman moving back to the outfield, presumably to take a bit of time away from Jon Jay. After a slow start, Pujols had been destroying the ball in June before his injury, so he could potentially provide a big boost for St. Louis.
↵The Pirates, meanwhile, have eight straight games against very bad team in the Astros and Cubs, so they could get a big boost themselves. Hopefully that's how things work out that way.
↵The Cardinals, Brewers, Pirates and Reds are all still very much in contention in the N.L. Central.