Cardinals top Guardians 6-5 on June 28, 2025, as Willson Contreras's 900th hit, a 9th-inning homer, seals the win. Recap the clutch hits and thrilling finish.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
In a back-and-forth battle that had fans on the edge of their seats, the St. Louis Cardinals showcased their grit and offensive depth, squeaking out a 6-5 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. While several bats came up big, it was Willson Contreras who delivered the exclamation point, launching a historic 9th-inning home run to provide the decisive run at Progressive Field.
Willson Contreras's 900th career hit? A go-ahead solo home run in the top of the ninth inning. Talk about clutch.
This wasn't a one-man show. The Cardinals' lineup worked together to put pressure on the Guardians all evening. Brendan Donovan was a sparkplug, going 1-for-2 but scoring twice and driving in two more. Masyn Winn continued his hot hitting with a two-hit day, while Alec Burleson delivered a crucial two-run single. Perhaps one of the biggest hits came in the sixth when Nolan Gorman ripped an RBI single to center, driving in Lars Nootbaar and extending the lead to 6-4 at a critical juncture. It was a complete offensive performance that saw contributions up and down the order.
Some players get their milestone hits on a routine single. Willson Contreras is not one of those players. Stepping to the plate in the top of the ninth with the game on the line, the Cardinals' backstop crushed a solo shot, not only giving the team a much-needed insurance run but also marking his 900th career hit. It was a signature moment for one of the team's leaders, a perfect blend of power, timing, and historical significance that ultimately made the difference in the final score. After a solid start from Miles Mikolas, Ryan Helsley came in to lock down the save, but Willy's blast was the true dagger.
While the big-league club battles for a playoff spot, the future of the organization is looking brighter than ever. A recent report highlighted that a whopping thirteen of the Cardinals' Top 30 prospects have ETAs for 2025. Names like pitchers Quinn Mathews, Tink Hence, and Cooper Hjerpe could provide a major boost to the rotation and bullpen depth next season, joining Michael McGreevy who already has some MLB experience. Keep an eye on infielders Thomas Saggese and even 2024's top pick, JJ Wetherholt, who could make a surprise debut later this year. This wave of talent ensures that wins like today's are part of a sustainable plan for success.
With the win, the Cardinals improve to a solid 45-38, building crucial momentum on the road. This victory was a perfect snapshot of the 2025 Cardinals: veteran leadership from Contreras, clutch hitting from the supporting cast, and a wave of exciting young talent just waiting for their chance. As they look to take the series tomorrow, fans have every reason to be excited about both the present and the future.
