Historic Day in Major League Baseball: Cardinals Edge Giants at Rickwood Field
The St. Louis Cardinals clinched a thrilling 6-5 victory over the San Francisco Giants in a historic game at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama. This landmark game was noteworthy, not just for the on-field action, but for its setting. Rickwood Field, which predates both Wrigley Field and Fenway Park, has a storied past, notably hosting the Negro League's Black Barons. Thursday's game marked Major League Baseball's first-ever appearance at this venerable ballpark.
A Touching Tribute to Willie Mays
This poignant game occurred just two days after the passing of the legendary Willie Mays, who died at the age of 93. Mays had an illustrious career beginning at Rickwood Field with the Black Barons before signing with the Giants. Major League Baseball paid homage to Mays' remarkable life and career with various tributes throughout the day.
The Giants displayed Mays’ iconic No. 24 prominently behind home plate. His son, Michael Mays, had the honor of being escorted onto the field by baseball greats, Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr. Former Black Barons teammate and the first Black pitcher in Cardinals history, Bill Greason, threw the ceremonial first pitch.
The Giants also honored Mays by wearing patches on their jerseys dedicated to the San Francisco Sea Lions, a nod to another historic Negro League team. Not to be outdone, the Cardinals sported uniforms inspired by the St. Louis Stars, further emphasizing the day's historical resonance.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The game drew a host of notable figures within the baseball community. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred was in attendance, alongside special assistant Joe Torre. Former All-Stars Reggie Jackson, Albert Pujols, and CC Sabathia also graced the event with their presence. Additionally, Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro League Hall of Fame, attended to honor Willie Mays and the rich history of Rickwood Field.
Donovan Shines in Home State Return
One of the game's standout performers was Brendan Donovan, who made a remarkable return to his home state. Donovan went 3-for-3, including his seventh home run of the season. He also added a double and drove in three runs, providing a crucial contribution to the Cardinals' victory. Nolan Gorman chipped in with two runs driven in on sacrifice flies, while Alec Burleson scored on a wild pitch, rounding out the Cardinals' scoring highlights.
Ramos Keeps the Momentum
On the Giants' side, Heliot Ramos continued his impressive season. Entering the game with a solid .310/.388/.545 hitting line, Ramos belted a three-run home run in the third inning, bringing his total to nine home runs and 32 RBIs over 38 games. Wilmer Flores and Nick Ahmed each added a run, but their efforts ultimately fell short against the surging Cardinals.
Injury Cloud Hangs over Yastrzemski
In a setback for the Giants, Mike Yastrzemski exited the game due to side tightness. Yastrzemski had been posting a .220/.300/.403 hitting line with seven home runs and ten additional extra-base hits across 66 games. His 1.5 WAR indicates his value to the team, and this injury could be a significant blow as the Giants continue their season.
What's Next
The series between the Giants and the Cardinals will resume on Saturday, but Thursday's game at Rickwood Field will be remembered as a landmark event. The tributes to Willie Mays and the historic setting of Rickwood Field offered a rich tableau for baseball aficionados and historians alike. Commissioner Rob Manfred summed up the significance of the event, calling it "a testament to baseball's enduring legacy and a symbol of hope, remembrance, and progress."