Rays Defeat Cubs in Return to Tropicana Field

Mullins, Aranda, and Caminero homer to lead Tampa Bay to 6-4 victory.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:53am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game broken down into overlapping planes of bright colors, capturing the dynamic energy of the Rays' homecoming.The Rays' return to their home stadium brings a renewed sense of energy and community to Tampa Bay baseball.St. Petersburg Today

The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Chicago Cubs 6-4 on Monday in their first game at Tropicana Field in 561 days. Cedric Mullins, Jonathan Aranda, and Junior Caminero each hit home runs to power the Rays to victory.

Why it matters

The Rays' return to their home stadium after over a year and a half is a significant milestone, as the team looks to build momentum and fan engagement after playing most of their recent home games elsewhere.

The details

Mullins, Aranda, and Caminero each hit solo home runs to account for the Rays' scoring in the game. The win marked the team's first game back at Tropicana Field since the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to play the majority of their home games elsewhere.

  • The game took place on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • The Rays had not played at Tropicana Field for 561 days prior to this game.

The players

Cedric Mullins

Outfielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.

Jonathan Aranda

Infielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.

Junior Caminero

Outfielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.

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The takeaway

The Rays' return to Tropicana Field after over a year and a half is an important milestone for the team and its fans, as they look to build momentum and engagement in their home market.