DISNEY WORLD — When the Cardinals received reports on Juan Gonzalez and his wish to return to the major leagues, the praise was all about bat speed, attitude, power and physical condition. Before spring training opened a Cardinals official acknowledged that they didn’t really know what to expect in the field.

Several weeks later, they’re going to find out.

Gonzalez, who has one major-league at-bat in the past 3 1/2 seasons, will start in right field and bat sixth today against Atlanta at Disney’s Champion Stadium. It will be his first appearance in the field, coming in the Cardinals’ 13th game of spring. The team had been cautious putting him out there to preserve his legs, though he was not held out of any drills or workouts the Cardinals did in the field.

The lineup, facing Atlanta rookie righthander Jair Jurrjens.

The Cardinals (5-7)

1. Adam Kennedy, 2B
2. Brian Barton, LF
3. Albert Pujols, 1B
4. Rick Ankiel, CF
5. Troy Glaus, 3B
6. Juan Gonzalez, RF
7. Yadier Molina, C
8. Adam Wainwright, RHP
9. Cesar Izturis, SS

Check back for the pitching plan.

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