ST. LOUIS (AP) — The electronic message board where the St. Louis Cardinals lineup is posted left no room for debate: Clubhouse Closed. Coaches Included. A breather was mandated Monday before the NL Central-leading Pirates come to town. Manager Mike Matheny said before they get back to business, players need to get away.

Adam Wainwright, who in recent starts has lacked the put-away pitch that makes him the staff ace, got a similar message. He has steadfastly maintained fatigue is not an issue, but figures to be fresh after three extra days rest entering the series opener Tuesday night.