Albert Pujols out of the lineup with sore elbow

Albert Pujols, troubled by a sore left elbow the past three weeks, will get Tuesday off after receiving a cortisone shot Monday night. Felipe Lopez is making his first career start at first base in his place. Pujols originally injured his non-throwing elbow making a play on defense against the Pirates last month. A couple of swings last night further aggravated the condition, and it was decided that a cortisone shot was the best course of action. Manager Tony La Russa said Pujols could be available off the bench tonight. A return to the starting lineup on Wednesday seems likely. Pujols is the National League leader with 39 homers and 104 RBI this season.