The Cardinals finally got a break Monday after playing 20 consecutive games, going 14-6 during a stretch that began with a healthy ace, setup man and top hitter and concluded without all three. They own the best record in the majors at 22-9 despite losing Adam Wainwright for the season with a torn Achilles tendon, shutting down Jordan Walden due to biceps and shoulder woes and giving Matt Carpenter a break due to fatigue and dehydration.

The Cardinals could be closer to getting a long-term replacement for Wainwright, although lefty Tyler Lyons will remain in the rotation for at least one more start.