ST. LOUIS — Cardinals fans with and without tickets celebrated a big win at the team’s home opener Thursday.
The 9-0 score against the Pittsburg Pirates sparked a shared victory for everyone inside Busch Stadium and across the downtown area. 5 On Your Side spoke to spectators to get their reactions.
“We're going to the World Series,” said one man who watched the game on a big monitor outside of Ballpark Village.
"We're over here in the Brew House and still see down in the stadium even though we're not in the game. Probably half the people don't even have tickets. You know. They are just here for the atmosphere,” a woman added.
“We didn't go in but we went down to Paddy O's and it was all good,” said Thad Rule, catching the game from Ballpark Village.
Rule was visiting the area from Canada with his wife.
“I'm guessing there's no better baseball city in the world other than St. Louis. It was a good day. We had a good time, man," Rule said.
Cardinal Way wasn't short of diehard fans sporting their blue and red gear, either.
“When it came to where they had the lockdown, oh I was sick. I was sick. I was like 'OK, wait a minute,' but they came on. Pujols came back. Yay for Pujols and Yadier. We are enjoying it. It was amazing,” said Paige Mosley.
St. Louis rapper Chingy was among the locals happy to see their favorite players back on the diamond and their home base thrive.
"Opening Day means new life in the city. It's a very special day. Especially knowing that Pujols came back. I think it's bringing a lot of attention to the city. A lot of money is going to be made," Chingy said.
"The whole atmosphere here you know what I'm saying, like nachos, hot dogs, everybody's just so excited for the Cardinals to play. I'm that person," said Brandi Reagan.
Everyone was happy to see America's pastime back at home.
“Nothing like the streets of St. Louis and the Cardinals. Absolutely. 100 percent,” another woman agreed.
Fans continued to enjoy the other entertainment the Cardinals and baseball season bring to the city and its many restaurants and bars.