Rays Defeat Cubs in Tropicana Field Return

Tampa Bay rallies from early deficit to win home opener in renovated stadium.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:50am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game between the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago Cubs, with the players and field fragmented into sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant blue, red, and white colors.The Rays' home opener at the renovated Tropicana Field showcased the team's resilience as they rallied to defeat the Cubs in a dynamic, back-and-forth contest.St. Petersburg Today

The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Chicago Cubs 6-4 in their home opener at the renovated Tropicana Field on Monday. Cedric Mullins and Jonathan Aranda hit two-run homers to lead the Rays' comeback after they fell behind 2-0 early. The Rays were playing their first game at Tropicana Field in 19 months after the stadium was damaged by Hurricane Milton.

Why it matters

The Rays' return to their home stadium after nearly two years is a significant milestone for the franchise and the city of St. Petersburg. The renovations to Tropicana Field will allow the team to continue playing in the Tampa Bay area, which has been a point of contention in recent years.

The details

The Rays rallied from an early 2-0 deficit, with Cedric Mullins and Jonathan Aranda hitting two-run homers to power the comeback. Starter Shane McClanahan struggled with control early but settled in, while the Rays' bullpen closed out the win. The Cubs' Jameson Taillon took the loss, allowing four runs in six innings.

  • The Rays last played at Tropicana Field on July 22, 2023, 561 days ago.
  • Monday's game was the Rays' home opener after the stadium renovations following Hurricane Milton.

The players

Cedric Mullins

Rays outfielder who hit a two-run homer to tie the game in the second inning.

Jonathan Aranda

Rays infielder who hit a two-run homer in the seventh inning to give the Rays a 6-3 lead.

Shane McClanahan

Rays starting pitcher who allowed two runs in four innings but settled in after early control issues.

Jameson Taillon

Cubs starting pitcher who took the loss, allowing four runs in six innings.

Nico Hoerner

Cubs infielder who drove in two runs with a single in the second inning.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to be back home and playing in front of our fans again. The energy in the stadium was electric.”

— Cedric Mullins, Rays Outfielder

“We had our chances early, but couldn't hold on. Credit to the Rays for battling back and taking advantage of their opportunities.”

— Nico Hoerner, Cubs Infielder

What’s next

The Rays and Cubs will play the second game of their three-game series on Tuesday night at Tropicana Field.

The takeaway

The Rays' home opener at their renovated stadium was a success, as they rallied from an early deficit to defeat the Cubs. The return to Tropicana Field marks an important milestone for the franchise and the Tampa Bay community after the stadium's damage from Hurricane Milton.