Pujols cleared to play

ST. LOUIS, July 5 (UPI) -- The St. Louis Cardinals activated first baseman Albert Pujols from the 15-day disabled Tuesday, just two weeks after he broke a bone in his left forearm.

Pujols had been expected to miss four to six weeks of play but healed quickly and was cleared by his doctors to resume play.

He was hurt when reaching for an off-line throw and Kansas City's Wilson Betemit ran into his arm while running to first.

The 31-year-old first baseman is hitting .279 with 17 homers, 11 doubles and 45 RBI in 73 games -- an off-year for him. He hit above .300 with at least 32 home runs and more than 100 RBI in each of his first 10 major league seasons.

The Cards placed pitcher Brian Tallet on the 15-day DL with a right intercostal strain, clearing a roster spot for Pujols.