Historic Day in Major League Baseball: Cardinals Edge Giants at Rickwood Field
In a game that will undoubtedly go down in Major League Baseball history, the St. Louis Cardinals triumphed over the San Francisco Giants with a final score of 6-5. This match marked the league’s first-ever game at the storied Rickwood Field, located in Birmingham, Alabama. Rickwood Field, a venue rich in baseball heritage, predates both Wrigley Field in Chicago and Fenway Park in Boston. The field was originally home to the Negro League's Birmingham Black Barons, making it a fitting location for a tribute to one of baseball's all-time greats.
A Touching Tribute to Willie Mays
The game came just two days after the passing of the legendary Willie Mays at the age of 93. Mays began his professional career at Rickwood Field, playing for the Birmingham Black Barons before joining the Giants. In a heartfelt tribute, Major League Baseball honored Mays' extraordinary life and career.
Mays’ iconic No. 24 was prominently displayed behind home plate. His son, Michael Mays, was escorted onto the field by former Giants stars Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr. Adding to the poignant atmosphere, Bill Greason, a former teammate of Mays on the Black Barons and the first Black pitcher in Cardinals history, threw the ceremonial first pitch.
The Giants honored Mays by wearing patches on their jerseys that paid homage to the San Francisco Sea Lions, another historic Negro League team. Meanwhile, the Cardinals donned uniforms modeled after the St. Louis Stars, another classic Negro League team.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The game attracted numerous notable figures from the world of baseball. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and his special assistant, Joe Torre, were present. Former All-Stars Reggie Jackson, Albert Pujols, and CC Sabathia also attended the game. Additionally, Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, was among the distinguished guests.
Donovan Shines in Home State Return
Brendan Donovan made a triumphant return to his home state of Alabama, delivering a standout performance. Donovan went a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate, hitting his seventh home run of the season, adding a double, and driving in three runs. Nolan Gorman contributed to the Cardinals' victory by driving in two runs on sacrifice flies, and Alec Burleson added another run, scoring on a wild pitch.
Ramos Keeps the Momentum
For the Giants, Heliot Ramos continued his impressive season. Coming into the game with a .310/.388/.545 hitting line, Ramos had already tallied nine home runs and 32 RBIs over 38 games. He bolstered his statistics further by launching a three-run home run in the third inning. Additionally, Wilmer Flores and Nick Ahmed each added a run to the Giants' tally.
Injury Cloud Hangs over Yastrzemski
However, the Giants did not come away unscathed. Mike Yastrzemski exited the game due to side tightness. Yastrzemski had been hitting .220/.300/.403 with seven home runs and had contributed ten additional extra-base hits and a 1.5 WAR over 66 games. His injury could be a significant setback for the Giants as they continue the series against the Cardinals.
What's Next
The series between the Giants and the Cardinals will resume on Saturday. Thursday's game at Rickwood Field will be remembered not only as a thrilling contest but also as a landmark event that paid tribute to Willie Mays and celebrated baseball's rich and enduring legacy. Commissioner Rob Manfred summed up the spirit of the event by stating, "The event was a testament to baseball's enduring legacy and a symbol of hope, remembrance, and progress."