Cardinals rally for 9-7 win over Rays in season opener

Alec Burleson's two-run homer caps off an eight-run sixth inning for St. Louis

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:00pm

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The St. Louis Cardinals rallied for a 9-7 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Thursday, with Alec Burleson hitting a two-run homer to cap off an eight-run outburst in the sixth inning. Rookie JJ Wetherholt also homered for the Cardinals, who are off on Friday before hosting the Rays again on Saturday.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' comeback win in their season opener sets the tone for what could be an exciting year for the team and its fans, as they look to build on last season's success and make a deep playoff run.

The details

After falling behind 7-1, the Cardinals exploded for eight runs in the sixth inning to take the lead. Burleson's two-run shot was the big blow in the rally, which also included a home run from rookie JJ Wetherholt.

  • The game was played on Thursday, March 27, 2026.
  • The Cardinals are off on Friday, March 28, 2026, before hosting the Rays again on Saturday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Alec Burleson

A Cardinals outfielder who hit a two-run homer to cap off an eight-run sixth inning and lead St. Louis to the comeback win.

JJ Wetherholt

A Cardinals rookie who also homered in the game.

Tampa Bay Rays

The Cardinals' opponent, who jumped out to an early 7-1 lead before the Cardinals rallied.

St. Louis Cardinals

The home team, who overcame a six-run deficit to win their season opener.

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What’s next

The Cardinals will look to build on this comeback win when they host the Rays again on Saturday, March 29, 2026.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' thrilling comeback victory on Opening Day is an exciting start to the season and a testament to the team's resilience and offensive firepower, which could make them a force to be reckoned with in the NL Central this year.