Springfield Cardinals to Host St. Louis in Exhibition Matchup

The minor league affiliate will welcome its MLB parent club for a special preseason game.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 5:50pm

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The Springfield Cardinals, the Double-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, will host their major league parent club in a special exhibition game on Monday night at Hammons Field. The matchup marks the first time the two teams have met in Springfield in nearly a decade, and it serves as an early kickoff to the upcoming season for the reigning 2025 champions.

Why it matters

The exhibition game provides an opportunity for Springfield fans to see top minor league prospects alongside established major league stars, while also generating early excitement for the upcoming season for the reigning Double-A champions.

The details

The game is scheduled for a 6:05 pm first pitch, with gates opening at 2:30 pm to allow fans to watch batting practice and pregame activities. The Springfield Cardinals' official home opener is set for April 7, but Monday's game is expected to feature additional promotions and festivities.

  • The exhibition game will take place on Monday, March 23, 2026.
  • The Springfield Cardinals' official home opener is scheduled for April 7, 2026.

The players

Springfield Cardinals

The Double-A minor league affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, based in Springfield, Missouri.

St. Louis Cardinals

The Major League Baseball team based in St. Louis, Missouri, and the parent club of the Springfield Cardinals.

Steve Granado

The Manager of Public Relations and Digital Marketing for the Springfield Cardinals.

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What they’re saying

“The matchup brings the organization full circle, referencing the franchise's early days when St. Louis played exhibition games in Springfield shortly after the team's arrival in 2005.”

— Steve Granado, Manager of Public Relations and Digital Marketing

What’s next

Fans unable to attend the exhibition game can watch it on the Ozarks CW television network.

The takeaway

The exhibition game between the Springfield Cardinals and St. Louis Cardinals provides an early preview of the upcoming minor league season, allowing fans to see top prospects alongside established major league stars while also generating excitement for the reigning Double-A champions.