In a memorable debut, Joshua Báez made major league history by hitting three home runs in his first three at-bats. His performance led the St. Louis Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The 23-year-old left fielder was called up from Triple-A Memphis earlier in the day.
Báez’s first home run came from the initial pitch he faced, which soared into the Wrigley Field bleachers. He continued his stunning performance with home runs in the following two at-bats, contributing a total of five runs batted in. Supporting efforts came from Blaze Jordan and Alec Burleson, who each chipped in solo home runs. The Cardinals bounced back from losing the first game of the three-game series.
Báez’s achievement marks the first time a St. Louis player has homered in his first career plate appearance since Lane Thomas did so in June 2019. On the Cubs’ side, Michael Conforto hit a three-run homer, yet the Cubs fell short despite having won nine of their previous eleven games.
Michael McGreevy, taking the mound for the Cardinals, improved his record to 5-9. He managed six innings with six strikeouts, allowing three unearned runs on five hits and two walks, securing his first win since July 8. Báez’s first home run, a two-run hit, was off Matthew Boyd. Báez then homered to lead off the fourth inning and again in the sixth, helping the Cardinals pull ahead.
Matthew Boyd, who was responsible for the three home runs by Báez, ended his stint by allowing seven runs over 5 1/3 innings, also accounting for five hits and three walks. Colin Rea faced Alec Burleson’s homer in the eighth inning.
The series will conclude on Sunday afternoon. The Cardinals plan to start Hunter Dobbins, who holds a 2-3 record with a 3.40 ERA. The Cubs will counter with Edward Cabrera, making his return since June 23 after dealing with a left hamstring strain. Cabrera stands at 5-4 with a 5.10 ERA.