By Jen Cooper

Albert Pujols certainly had his own excited cheering section at the Cardinals’ game on August 4th against the Houston Astros. That is because the Pujols Family Foundation was invited to be a part of Major League Baseball Players Association’s Buses for Baseball program. Buses for Baseball selects a local children’s charity and arranges for 50 kids to ride a bus to the game, check out the home and visiting players warm up, get up-close during batting practice and then enjoy the game from the stands.

Despite the intense St. Louis heat, everyone was in high spirits as they met to get on the bus. Laughter and chatter filled each of the seats as the bus cruised down the highway to Busch Stadium. Upon arrival everyone was excited for the opportunity to see their favorite players from their special vantage point on the field. Rookie standouts Jaime Garcia and Jon Jay came over to visit as well as Randy Winn and Skip Schumaker. They took the time to speak to all of the kids, sign autographs and pose for pictures. Other special guest stopped by to get in on the fun including former Cardinals Kerry Robinson, broadcaster Al Hrabosky and Houston Astros outfielder, Hunter Pence. After all of the excitement, it was hard to believe that there was still a game to be played.

As the group made their way to their seats, 24 year-old Rachel Zuccarello said that Albert Pujols was going to hit her a homerun. It did not take long for Albert to deliver as he hit a 3-run rocket off the Astros starting pitcher. Rachel was overcome with joy and excitement as she saw the ball go over the wall.

Everyone had a great time watching the game and enjoying concessions that were also provided through the Buses for Baseball program. The Cardinals did not disappoint as they came through with another victory at home.

As everyone was loading back onto the bus to return home, you could hear the sharing of stories and highlights of the night. This was a definitely a night that everyone in attendance will remember.