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Cardinals Hold Off Astros 6-5 in Grapefruit League Play
St. Louis breaks game open with four-run third inning, holds on for victory over Houston
Feb. 23, 2026 at 7:20pm
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The St. Louis Cardinals scored six runs on nine hits to hold off the Houston Astros 6-5 in a Grapefruit League spring training game on Sunday at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, Florida. St. Louis built a 6-2 lead with a four-run third inning and two more runs in the fifth, then withstood a three-run ninth-inning rally by Houston.
Why it matters
Spring training games provide an early look at how teams are shaping up before the regular season begins, with players competing for roster spots and managers experimenting with lineups and pitching rotations.
The details
Cardinals starter Kyle Leahy allowed one run on one hit with three strikeouts over two innings. Mauricio Rajcic earned the win with two scoreless innings, and Dedniel Saladin recorded the save. Offensively, Yunior Pozo went 1-for-2 with two RBIs and a double, while Caesar Prieto added two RBIs. For the Astros, Jack Winkler hit a solo home run.
- The game was played on Sunday, February 23, 2026.
- The Cardinals return to action this afternoon, taking on the Miami Marlins in Grapefruit League play at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Florida. First pitch is scheduled for noon local time.
The players
Kyle Leahy
The Cardinals' starting pitcher, who allowed one run on one hit with three strikeouts over two innings.
Mauricio Rajcic
The Cardinals' relief pitcher, who earned the win with two scoreless innings.
Dedniel Saladin
The Cardinals' relief pitcher, who recorded the save.
Yunior Pozo
The Cardinals' hitter, who went 1-for-2 with two RBIs and a double.
Caesar Prieto
The Cardinals' hitter, who added two RBIs.
Jack Winkler
The Astros' hitter, who hit a solo home run.
What’s next
The Cardinals return to action this afternoon, taking on the Miami Marlins in Grapefruit League play at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Florida. First pitch is scheduled for noon local time.
The takeaway
Spring training games provide an early look at how teams are shaping up before the regular season begins, with players competing for roster spots and managers experimenting with lineups and pitching rotations. The Cardinals' victory over the Astros showcases the depth and talent on their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.
