Pujols was originally slated to play first base, then was moved to designated hitter before becoming a late scratch against the Washington Nationals because of a sore back. The three-time National League MVP has missed the last three games as a precaution.
"He says he's good to go, but if at any time during the workout he feels a twinge, we'll get him out," manager Tony La Russa said prior to batting practice.
Pujols took his normal turn in batting practice before the decision was made to pull him.
The Cardinals also scratched outfielder Matt Holliday from the lineup after he experienced soreness in his right rib cage following BP. The team expects Holliday to miss a few days.
St. Louis Cardinals’ Albert Pujols out vs. Boston Red Sox after back discomfortPep wants more from Henry
