Joshua Baez didn’t just step onto an MLB field for the first time, he absolutely tore it up. The St. Louis Cardinals called up their rookie outfielder for a weekend series against the Chicago Cubs, and the move has been a massive win right out of the gate. In his very first big league at-bat, on the very first pitch he saw, Baez launched a monster home run that sailed nearly 450 feet. What an absolutely wild way to start an MLB career.
Making Instant History
But hold up, it gets even crazier. Baez wasn’t done with just one bomb. In his second at-bat, he hit another homer. Yep, two home runs in his MLB debut. This feat is so rare it’s mind-boggling. MLB researcher Sarah Langs confirmed Baez joins just eight other players in the entire history of the sport to hit two dingers in their first regular-season game. It’s a club with some serious prestige.
Who Else Is In This Exclusive Club?
The most recent player to pull this off before Baez was Chase DeLauter, who did it for the Cleveland Guardians back on March 26 of this very 2026 season. Before them, you’ve got names like Trevor Story in 2016 and J.P. Arencibia in 2010. Those are the only players since 2000 to hit two homers in their debut. The list stretches way back, including Mark Quinn (1999), Bert Campaneris (1964), Bob Nieman (1951), and Charlie Reilly (1889). Baez hit 35 homers in the minors this season, so we knew he had the power, but this? This is next level.
The Cardinals suddenly have a seriously fun core to build around with guys like JJ Wetherholt, Ivan Herrera, Alec Burleson, Jordan Walker, and now this absolute firecracker, Baez. You gotta wonder if Baez can keep this incredible momentum going to close out the year. What a start, and what history could still be made if he stays hot.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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