Cardinals Struggle to Produce Hits Against Giants, Fall Behind Early
In a disappointing game for the Cardinals, it wasn’t just their depleted lineup that had trouble producing hits on Friday night. The pitching staff also struggled, allowing a whopping 18 hits to the San Francisco Giants. The Cardinals didn’t even get their first hit of the game until they were already trailing by six runs. And by the time they managed to get two runners on base in the same inning, they were already down by seven runs.
The Giants dominated the game, ultimately winning 8-2 at Busch Stadium. This loss prevented the Cardinals from tying their guests with 71 wins. Adding to the pressure of the game was the presence of the 1985 Cardinals, who were in town to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their National League pennant. The heat was on from the very beginning.
It was a tough night for the Cardinals, who couldn’t seem to catch a break against the Giants. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to overcome the early deficit and ultimately fell short. The Giants’ impressive 18 hits were just too much for the Cardinals to handle. But with the charismatic 1985 Cardinals in attendance, the home team certainly felt the pressure to perform. Unfortunately, they were unable to deliver a win for their guests and fans.
Cardinals Struggle to Keep Up with Giants’ Hit Parade in 8-2 Loss at Busch Stadium
The Cardinals’ lineup was no match for the San Francisco Giants’ offensive onslaught on Friday night, as the home team fell 8-2 at Busch Stadium. Not only did the Cardinals struggle to produce hits, but their pitchers also allowed a whopping 18 hits to the Giants.
The game started off on a rough note for the Cardinals, as the Giants quickly took a 6-0 lead before the Cardinals even managed to get their first hit. By the time the Cardinals were able to get two runners on base in the same inning, they were already trailing by seven runs.
The Giants’ dominance at the plate was a stark contrast to the 1985 Cardinals, who were in town to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their National League pennant. The 2025 Cardinals failed to replicate the same level of success in terms of running and defense, with their defense being particularly shaky and unable to turn crucial double plays.
The Cardinals’ baserunning was also hindered by their lack of baserunners, a problem that was compounded by the absence of key players from their opening day roster. Willson Contreras, the team’s home run leader, was suspended for the entire series due to an ejection in August. Injuries to Brendan Donovan, Nolan Arenado, and Alec Burleson also left the Cardinals without an All-Star, a Silver Slugger-winner, and their top batting average in the lineup.
In fact, only shortstop Masyn Winn was playing in his usual position in the infield, with the rest of the players being shuffled around due to injuries. Rookie pitcher Michael McGreevy struggled on the mound, allowing six runs on nine hits in just four innings.
On the other side, Giants starter Carson Seymour held the Cardinals hitless until the fifth inning, earning his first big-league win in his 12th appearance and second start. The Giants’ offense was firing on all cylinders, with six of their nine starters recording at least two hits. Outfielder Jung Hoo Lee led the charge with four hits.
The Giants’ 18 hits were the most allowed by the Cardinals at home this season, and the second time this season that a team has recorded at least 18 hits against them. The Cardinals will have to regroup and try to bounce back in the remaining games of the series, but it won’t be easy without key players in their lineup.
