St. Louis Cardinals Series Preview: Bader to return against the Buccos?

The St. Louis Cardinals already have one series win against the Pittsburgh Pirates under their belt. How will series two go?

A lot has changed since the St. Louis Cardinals last took on the Pittsburgh Pirates. In the opening series of 2020, the Cardinals came away 2-1 winners. Since then, the Redbirds endured a 17-day COVID-induced break and have returned strong, winning nine of 15 possible matchups.

After a walk-off win via a Kolten Wong walk versus the Royals in the ninth on Wednesday, the Redbirds return to their schedule of doubleheaders. We’ll have two games Thursday against the Pirates, with KK making his third career start in MLB in game one versus Chad Kuhl. Game two will see the return of Johan Oviedo to the starting rotation when he takes on Cody Ponce.

Over the history of the St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates matchup, they have played a total of 250 doubleheaders (500 games). Presently, the Pirates are currently edging it, having won 247 of the games played. In recent history, the Cards have won 70% of the doubleheaders in the last 40 years!

The Cardinals have swept 64 of the 250 doubleheaders, last winning both games of a doubleheader back in August 2004 behind solid outings from Dan Haren and Chris Carpenter. Today will be a great opportunity to continue the streak of doubleheader wins over the Pirates.