Historic Day in Major League Baseball: Cardinals Edge Giants at Rickwood Field
The St. Louis Cardinals bested the San Francisco Giants in a close 6-5 game, marking the Major League Baseball’s first-ever game at Rickwood Field. Located in Birmingham, Alabama, Rickwood Field predates both Wrigley Field and Fenway Park, and once hosted the Negro League's Black Barons.
A Touching Tribute to Willie Mays
The historic game took place just two days after the passing of baseball legend Willie Mays, who died at the age of 93. Mays began his professional career at Rickwood Field with the Black Barons before signing with the Giants. Major League Baseball paid tribute to Mays' illustrious life and career throughout the event.
Mays’ signature No. 24 was prominently displayed behind home plate. His son, Michael Mays, was escorted onto the field by Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr., two of the game's other greats. The ceremonial first pitch was thrown by Bill Greason, a former teammate of Mays on the Black Barons and the first Black pitcher in Cardinals history.
The Giants honored Mays by wearing patches on their jerseys that paid homage to the San Francisco Sea Lions, a team in the West Coast Negro Baseball Association. The Cardinals similarly paid tribute by wearing uniforms modeled after those of the St. Louis Stars.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The emotional and monumental game drew several distinguished attendees. Among those present were MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and special assistant Joe Torre. Former All-Stars Reggie Jackson, Albert Pujols, and CC Sabathia were also in attendance, as was Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro League Hall of Fame.
Donovan Shines in Home State Return
Brendan Donovan, a native of Alabama, made a triumphant return to his home state by delivering an outstanding performance. Donovan went 3-for-3, including hitting his seventh home run of the season. He also notched a double and drove in three runs. Nolan Gorman added to the Cardinals' offense by driving in two runs with sacrifice flies, and Alec Burleson scored on a wild pitch.
Ramos Keeps the Momentum
Heliot Ramos entered the game with an impressive .310/.388/.545 hitting line, boasting nine home runs and 32 RBIs over 38 games. He continued his strong performance with a three-run home run in the third inning. Wilmer Flores and Nick Ahmed each contributed a run to the Giants' effort, adding to the competitive atmosphere of the game.
Injury Cloud Hangs over Yastrzemski
Adding a layer of concern for the Giants, Mike Yastrzemski exited the game due to side tightness. Yastrzemski had been hitting .220/.300/.403 with seven home runs, along with ten additional extra-base hits and a 1.5 WAR over 66 games. His injury could potentially be a setback for the Giants as they move forward in the season.
What's Next
The series between the Giants and the Cardinals will resume on Saturday. Thursday's game at Rickwood Field will undoubtedly be remembered as a landmark event, paying homage to Willie Mays and celebrating the enduring legacy of baseball. Commissioner Rob Manfred eloquently summed up the event, stating, "The event was a testament to baseball's enduring legacy and a symbol of hope, remembrance, and progress."
As the series continues, the memorable moments from Rickwood Field will stay with fans and players alike, marking this historic occasion in the annals of Major League Baseball.