Beltran exits in sixth after feeling 'tweak' in leg

CINCINNATI -- Outfielder Carlos Beltran played just 5 1/2 innings of the Cardinals' 9-2 win over the Reds on Friday, exiting prematurely due to a "tweak in his leg," manager Mike Matheny said.

Beltran, who was not available postgame to provide any additional details on the injury, struck out swinging to end the sixth. With the ball getting away from catch Devin Mesoraco, Beltran jogged toward first before being retired.

In the bottom of the sixth, Shane Robinson took Beltran's place in right field.

"Something didn't quite feel right," Matheny said. "Any time I hear that, especially right after an at-bat, it's an opportunity to sit him down."

Before leaving the game, Beltran extended his hitting streak to eight games with a fourth-inning single. He has hit safely in 14 of his last 15 games.