Former Cardinals Ace Adam Wainwright Makes Savannah Bananas Debut at Sold Out Busch Stadium
The anticipation was palpable as former Cardinals ace, Adam Wainwright, returned to St. Louis to make his debut with the Savannah Bananas. Fans packed into Busch Stadium, eager to see the veteran pitcher take the mound once again.
Wainwright, who spent 15 seasons with the Cardinals, was traded to the Bananas earlier this month. Despite the change in scenery, the right-hander received a warm welcome from the St. Louis faithful.
The sold out crowd erupted into cheers as Wainwright took the field, donning the iconic yellow and black Bananas uniform. It was a sight that many thought they would never see, as Wainwright had spent his entire career with the Cardinals.
But Wainwright’s loyalty to the city of St. Louis was evident as he took the mound. He pitched a solid game, striking out six batters and only allowing two runs in six innings of work.
The Bananas ultimately fell short, losing to the Cardinals 4-2. But for Wainwright, it was a special moment to be back in the city where he had achieved so much success.
“It was an emotional night for me,” Wainwright said in a post-game interview. “But I am grateful for the opportunity to play in front of these amazing fans once again.”
As Wainwright walked off the field, he received a standing ovation
Former Cardinals Ace Adam Wainwright Makes Savannah Bananas Debut at Busch Stadium
In a sold-out game at Busch Stadium on Friday night, former Cardinals ace Adam Wainwright made his debut with the Savannah Bananas, a touring exhibition team known for blending baseball with entertainment. The 43-year-old pitcher, affectionately known as “Uncle Charlie,” received a standing ovation from the crowd as he took the mound for the first time since his retirement.
Wainwright’s appearance at Busch Stadium was a special moment for fans, as it marked his return to the field where he notched his 200th career win in September 2023. He became just the third pitcher in franchise history to reach that milestone.
The Bananas often bring in former MLB stars for guest appearances, and Wainwright joins a list of notable names such as Corey Kluber and Jake Peavy. When asked about his involvement with the team, Wainwright expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.
“I don’t know if Jessie [with Big League Impact] reached out first or if the Cardinals asked for me to be a part of it,” Wainwright said postgame. “But I’m grateful. This is exactly right up my alley.”
During his one inning on the mound, Wainwright gave up a single but quickly retired the next batter with a flyout. As he left the field, he tipped his cap to the cheering fans, acknowledging the electric atmosphere at Busch Stadium.
“When the crowd gets into it, you can’t help but feel it,” Wainwright said. “This is the best baseball town in the world.”
After 18 seasons with the Cardinals, Wainwright retired with an impressive record of 200 wins, 2,202 strikeouts, and a 3.53 ERA. He is a three-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, and his contributions to the team will never be forgotten by fans.
These days, Wainwright stays busy as a FOX analyst, country musician, and father. He plans to call Sunday’s Red Sox-Cubs game at Wrigley and will headline his Big League Bash concert on July 27 in Chesterfield.
Although it was only one inning, Wainwright’s return to the mound at Busch Stadium was a memorable night for fans. It was another reminder of the impact he had on the Cardinals organization and the city of St. Louis.
Related: Veteran Pitcher Kyle Gibson Announces Retirement From Baseball
In other baseball news, veteran pitcher Kyle Gibson has announced his retirement from the sport. The 38-year-old spent 15 seasons in the MLB, playing for various teams including the Cardinals. He will be remembered for his impressive career and contributions to the game.
Related: Cardinals Announce Historic Signing of First-Round Pick Liam Doyle
In more Cardinals news, the team has announced the historic signing of first-round pick Liam Doyle. The 21-year-old pitcher is the first player from his high school to be drafted in the first round, and the Cardinals are excited to have him on their roster.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on July 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
