Framber Valdez, Tigers blank Cards in home opener

Detroit pitcher tosses six scoreless innings in 4-0 win over St. Louis

Apr. 4, 2026 at 9:25am

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An abstract, expressionist painting capturing the intense motion and energy of a baseball pitcher's delivery, with vibrant neon colors and loose, gestural brushstrokes that obscure the specific details of the players.Valdez's dominant outing on the mound sets the tone for an energetic home opener victory.Today in Detroit

Framber Valdez pitched six scoreless innings, Dillon Dingler blasted a two-run homer and the Detroit Tigers blanked the St. Louis Cardinals, 4-0, in their home opener on Friday afternoon.

Why it matters

The Tigers' home opener is an important early-season game that sets the tone for the team's performance at home, where they will look to build momentum and fan support throughout the season.

The details

Valdez (1-0), one of the top free agent signings this offseason, allowed three hits and two walks while striking out five. Riley Greene had two hits, a run and an RBI while Javier Baez added two hits and an RBI. Michael McGreevy (0-1) took the loss, giving up three runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Framber Valdez

The Tigers' starting pitcher, who pitched six scoreless innings in the home opener.

Dillon Dingler

The Tigers' catcher, who hit a two-run home run in the fourth inning.

Michael McGreevy

The Cardinals' starting pitcher, who took the loss after giving up three runs in 4 2/3 innings.

Riley Greene

The Tigers' outfielder, who had two hits, a run scored, and an RBI.

Javier Baez

The Tigers' infielder, who had two hits and an RBI.

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What’s next

The Tigers will look to build on this strong home opener performance as they continue their season-opening homestand against the Cardinals.

The takeaway

The Tigers' impressive home opener victory, led by the stellar pitching of Framber Valdez and timely hitting from the lineup, has set the stage for an exciting home season as the team aims to contend in the AL Central.