Lohse beats Mets, picks up 10th victory

Cards righty tosses seven stellar frames; Duncan goes deep
ST. LOUIS -- Behind a few gifts from the visiting Mets on Monday night, the Cardinals took advantage early to win their first game at home in two weeks, 7-1.

The Cardinals scored at least one run in each of the first five innings. Aided by three errors -- two led to runs -- St. Louis rattled John Maine early and never trailed.

Coming off a poor start in which he only lasted four innings, Kyle Lohse shined through seven innings to win his 10th game of the year. Lohse struck out four batters and walked two.

Albert Pujols, who went 2-for-4, singled in Skip Schumaker in the first and later scored on a double play. That was enough breathing room for the Cardinals the rest of the way. Chris Duncan, who had not homered since May 16, hit a two-run shot to right field in the fifth inning.

The Cardinals have now won at least 15 games in June for the past four years and five of the last six.