The St. Louis Cardinals started off their postseason with a bang on Thursday night. Literally.

Carlos Beltran hit a 3-run homerun sparking a 7-run third inning for the Cards while also tying the record for most homeruns hit during postseason play currently held by the baseball legend, Babe Ruth.

The Cardinals were on fire all around the field. Adam Wainwright pitched the first seven innings and only allowed four hits and one run from the Pirates. Lafayette alum David Freese made a terrific diving play on Clint Barme’s low-liner to prevent extra bases. Matt Holliday offered up some solid batting to push his fellow teammates around the diamond.

The Pirates also contributed to the Cardinal’s success. Following Beltran’s homer, Pittsburg pitcher Burnett let Holliday get away with a double, then preceded to hit Matt Adams and walk Yadier Molina to load the bases. Directly following Molina’s walk, Jon Jay was then hit to push home another run. Then, Freese hit a two-run single but the bases emptied thanks to an error by right fielder Marlon Byrd.

The Pirates did not have a great third inning, but they did answer back in the fourth…with their one and only run. Pedro Alvarez hit a homerun in the fourth to decrease the deficit of the score; from 7-0, to 7-1.

Through the rest of the game, the Cardinals played consistent defense, not allowing another run while they played some aggressive offense earning another two runs.

Even though the Pirates were rallying off an exciting win against the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday to advance to the playoffs, they were no match for the 11 time World Series champs.

The Cardinals take on the Pirates at home in Game two of playoffs today, Friday, October 4th. first pitch is at 12:07 pm.

Go Cards!