Orlando

Palmeiro

It’s possible that Palmeiro will sign with the Astros and become their fifth outfielder.

If Palmeiro returns to Anaheim, where he spent eight seasons, he would compete for playing time with Jeff Davanon behind the team’s regular outfielders.

Palmeiro took a leave of absence following the death of his father on July 25.

That’s not the odd part. Manager Tony LaRussa put Palmeiro into the No. 3 spot in the order, saying ''He’s proven to me that he does a lot of things you want a No. 3 hitter to do.’' Palmeiro backed up those words with two hits and a walk. He’s already the fourth player to man right field for St. Louis this season, joining Eli Marrero, Eduardo Perez, and Miguel Cairo.

The homer is just the fourth of Palmeiro’s career. Orlando is getting extra playing time right now because Eli Marrero still isn’t 100 percent.

A $50,000 raise for a 690 OPS. Palmeiro, who turns 36 next month, used to be a pretty good bench player, but he’s living off his veteran presence now. There are no shortage of players in the minors who could be more effective bench players.

Endy Chavez? Maybe Alex Sanchez now. If the season started today, Jason Lane would likely play center, with Craig Biggio and Palmeiro playing the corners until Lance Berkman returned. Willy Tavares also has a chance of claiming a roster spot.

Palmeiro still could re-sign with the Cardinals, but it’s more likely that he’ll head elsewhere. A return to Anaheim is a possibility.

The Cubs are also interested in Todd Hollandsworth, Chris Singleton and, if his price tag drops, Jose Cruz Jr.

Palmeiro becomes Houston’s fifth outfielder. He and Jason Lane should be the first two pinch-hitters off the bench.