Cardinals and Rays Make Rare Opening Day History

The two teams combined for a feat not seen since 1890

Mar. 27, 2026 at 1:49pm

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In their Opening Day matchup, the St. Louis Cardinals and Tampa Bay Rays accomplished a rare feat that hasn't been done since 1890 - both teams scored 6+ runs in the same inning. The Cardinals came back from a 7-1 deficit to win 9-7, with an 8-run sixth inning. This was only the second time in MLB history that two teams scored at least 6 runs in the same inning on Opening Day, the other being the 1890 game between the Boston Beaneaters and Brooklyn Bridegrooms.

Why it matters

This historic Opening Day game highlights the unpredictable nature of baseball and the potential for dramatic comebacks, even early in the season. It also draws a fascinating connection to the sport's past, linking the modern-day Cardinals and Rays to two legendary 19th century franchises.

The details

In the top of the sixth inning, the Rays scored 6 runs to take a 7-1 lead. However, the Cardinals responded with an 8-run outburst in the bottom half of the inning to take the lead and eventually win 9-7. According to baseball historian Sarah Langs, this was only the second time in MLB history that both teams scored 6+ runs in the same inning on Opening Day, the other being a 15-9 Boston Beaneaters win over the Brooklyn Bridegrooms in 1890.

  • The Cardinals and Rays played on Opening Day, March 26, 2026.
  • The 6-run innings for each team occurred in the 6th inning of the game.

The players

St. Louis Cardinals

The National League baseball team based in St. Louis, Missouri, who were hosting the Rays on Opening Day.

Tampa Bay Rays

The American League baseball team based in St. Petersburg, Florida, who were visiting the Cardinals on Opening Day.

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What they’re saying

“This was the 2nd Opening Day game in MLB history where both teams scored 6+ runs in the same inning, joining: 4/19/1890 Boston Beaneaters & Brooklyn Bridegrooms, 3rd inning, h/t @EliasSports”

— Sarah Langs, Baseball Historian

The takeaway

This rare Opening Day matchup between the Cardinals and Rays showcases the unpredictability and historical significance of baseball, with the two teams accomplishing a feat not seen in over 136 years. It serves as a reminder of the sport's rich past and the potential for dramatic comebacks, even early in the season.