Rays Celebrate Return to Tropicana Field with 6-4 Win Over Cubs

Cedric Mullins, Jonathan Aranda, and Junior Caminero hit home runs in Tampa Bay's victory.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:06pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vibrant, textured painting in neon colors with rapid brushstrokes, conceptually representing the energy and excitement of a baseball game at Tropicana Field.The Rays' triumphant return to their home stadium Tropicana Field is celebrated with an explosive, colorful painting capturing the energy and excitement of their victory.Houston Today

The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Chicago Cubs 6-4 on Monday in their first game back at Tropicana Field. Cedric Mullins, Mexican player Jonathan Aranda, and Dominican player Junior Caminero each hit home runs for the Rays in the win.

Why it matters

The Rays' return to their home stadium, Tropicana Field, is an important milestone for the team and their fans after playing home games elsewhere during stadium renovations. The victory also keeps the Rays competitive in the AL East division race.

The details

The Rays jumped out to an early lead, with Cedric Mullins, Jonathan Aranda, and Junior Caminero all hitting solo home runs. The Cubs tried to mount a comeback, but the Rays' pitching held them off to secure the 6-4 win in their first game back at Tropicana Field.

  • The game took place on Monday, April 6, 2026.
  • The Rays were playing their first home game at Tropicana Field after renovations.

The players

Cedric Mullins

An outfielder for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.

Jonathan Aranda

A Mexican player for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.

Junior Caminero

A Dominican player for the Tampa Bay Rays who hit a home run in the game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was great to be back home and get a win in front of our fans. The energy in the stadium was electric.”

— Cedric Mullins, Rays Outfielder

The takeaway

The Rays' victory in their first game back at Tropicana Field is a positive sign for the team as they look to build momentum and make a push for the playoffs in the competitive AL East division.