BOSTON — The anticipated matchup between the Boston Red Sox and the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday, April 5, 2025, was thwarted by the relentless rain that plagued Fenway Park, leading to the postponement of the game after a lengthy delay of two hours and eight minutes. Originally scheduled for a 4:10 p.m. ET start, the game was never able to commence, leaving fans disappointed and eager for the next opportunity to see their team in action.
The rain-soaked day in Boston had already cast a shadow over the game, with forecasts predicting a steady downpour throughout the evening. By 5:30 p.m. ET, officials had yet to make a decision regarding the game, but as the rain continued to fall, it became increasingly clear that the match would not proceed as planned. The official announcement of the postponement came shortly after 6:20 p.m. ET, confirming the worst fears of fans hoping for a glimpse of their team.
The postponement means that the two teams will now face off in a split doubleheader on Sunday, April 6, 2025. The first game, which will make up for Saturday's cancellation, is set to start at 1:35 p.m. ET, while the originally scheduled second game will begin at 7:10 p.m. ET as planned. Fans who held tickets for Saturday’s contest will be able to use them for admission to the rescheduled game.
Boston manager Alex Cora had expressed optimism earlier in the day, stating, “We’re going to try to play around the rain.” However, the weather proved too challenging, as rain continued to threaten the game well into the evening. With temperatures hovering in the mid-to-low 40s, it would have been a chilly experience for fans had the game gone ahead.
In the wake of the postponement, the Red Sox are looking to carry the momentum from their impressive home opener on Friday, April 4, when they triumphed over the Cardinals 13-9. This victory marked the third consecutive win for the Red Sox, bringing their record to 4-4 in the young season. The team showcased a powerful offense, and fans were hopeful that the momentum would continue into Saturday’s game.
As the Red Sox prepare for the doubleheader, they will make some adjustments to their lineup. Lefty Sean Newcomb is slated to start Game 1, taking the place of Richard Fitts, who was originally scheduled to pitch on Saturday. The decision comes as the team looks to maximize their chances against the Cardinals, who will send Andre Pallante to the mound for Game 1.
In the lineup for the Red Sox, Kristian Campbell, who recently signed a lucrative eight-year contract extension worth $60 million, is expected to start in center field. Campbell's performance will be closely watched as he continues to make a name for himself in the league. Jarren Duran will shift to left field, while David Hamilton is set to play second base, still searching for his first hit of the season.
Wilyer Abreu, who has been a standout performer early in the season with 11 hits, three home runs, and nine runs scored in just eight games, has been scratched from the initial lineup. Rob Refsnyder will take his place in right field, looking to make an impact after collecting two hits and a run in his only outing of the season thus far.
The Red Sox face a demanding schedule ahead, with 13 games lined up over the next 12 days, culminating in a day off on April 17. Following the doubleheader against the Cardinals, the Red Sox will welcome the Toronto Blue Jays for a four-game series before embarking on a six-game road trip to Chicago and Tampa.
As the teams prepare for the doubleheader on Sunday, fans will be eagerly awaiting the chance to see their players perform under the iconic lights of Fenway Park once again. With the anticipation building, both teams will look to capitalize on the opportunity to gain ground in the early season standings.
The excitement surrounding the Red Sox's home opener and the subsequent postponement of Saturday's game highlights the unpredictable nature of early-season baseball, especially in New England. Fans will be hoping for clear skies and a thrilling doubleheader as they rally behind their team in the pursuit of victory.
