Contreras Drives in 3 as Red Sox Rout Cardinals

Veteran catcher helps Boston set season high in runs with 7-1 win over his former team.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:53am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, cubist-style painting depicting a baseball game in progress, with the players' movements and the energy of the competition represented through fragmented, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette.A cubist interpretation of the high-energy matchup between the Red Sox and Cardinals, with Willson Contreras' standout performance against his former team as the focal point.Boston Today

Willson Contreras, a former St. Louis Cardinals player, drove in three runs to lead the Boston Red Sox to a 7-1 victory over his old team. Pitcher Ranger Suárez also contributed with six scoreless innings, helping the Red Sox set a new season high for runs scored.

Why it matters

This game marks a significant win for the Red Sox, who have struggled at times this season. Contreras' performance against his former club adds an interesting personal storyline, while Suárez's strong outing on the mound continues to solidify Boston's pitching rotation.

The details

Contreras, who spent the first seven seasons of his MLB career with the Cardinals, hit a two-run single in the third inning and an RBI double in the seventh to pace the Red Sox offense. Suárez, acquired by Boston in a trade last year, allowed just three hits and struck out seven batters over his six scoreless frames.

  • The game was played on April 11, 2026.

The players

Willson Contreras

A veteran catcher who previously played for the St. Louis Cardinals before joining the Boston Red Sox this season.

Ranger Suárez

A pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who was acquired in a trade last year and delivered a strong six-inning outing.

St. Louis Cardinals

The opposing team that lost 7-1 to the Boston Red Sox.

Boston Red Sox

The home team that won the game 7-1 and set a new season high for runs scored.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Willson has been a great addition to our lineup. He really came through for us today against his former team.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

What’s next

The Red Sox will look to build on this win as they continue their homestand, facing the Tampa Bay Rays in a three-game series starting on April 14th.

The takeaway

Contreras' big game against his former team, combined with Suárez's strong pitching performance, helped the Red Sox secure an important victory that could provide momentum as they aim to climb the standings in the competitive AL East division.