Lankford mulls over minors or release

ST. LOUIS -- Cardinals outfielder Ray Lankford was not with the team on Sunday while mulling whether to accept an option to the minor leagues or be released.

Lankford had been due to come off the 15-day disabled list from a wrist injury on Friday but the team does not need him after acquiring Larry Walker from the Colorado Rockies the same day.

"He's got a decision to make," manager Tony La Russa said.

Lankford was the opening day left fielder after sitting out last year but has had only two starts in July as the Cardinals used John Mabry and others. Lankford was batting .258 in 186 at-bats with five homers and 19 RBIs.

La Russa said he believed Lankford was at his home in Florida.

-- AP