Cardinals' Matt Carpenter: Launches solo shot off Jason Hammel

Carpenter hit his 11th home run of the season Tuesday, a solo shot that helped the Cardinals defeat the first place Cubs 4-3.

Analysis:

Despite his lack of speed, Carpenter has been brilliant this season as the Cardinals leadoff hitter, with a .417 OBP that is tied for second in the NL. His 11 home runs continue his power-hitting pace set last year, when his 28 home runs were more than his previous three seasons combined. Carpenter has been especially productive of late, with an OBP well over .500 in June.