On April 5, 2018, the St. Louis Cardinals’ Opening Day at Busch Stadium was a celebration steeped in tradition and pageantry, highlighted by the majestic Budweiser Clydesdales. Their ceremonial lap around the warning track, pulling the iconic red beer wagon, has become a cherished symbol of Cardinals baseball and the city of St. Louis.
The Budweiser Clydesdales have been an integral part of Cardinals Opening Day festivities since the late 1970s. Their association with the team began after Anheuser-Busch purchased the Cardinals in 1953, and the Clydesdales’ appearances have since become a beloved tradition. Each year, the right-field gates of Busch Stadium are specially modified to allow the Clydesdales to enter and make their way around the field, much to the delight of fans.
The 2018 Opening Day ceremony commenced at 5:30 p.m., featuring the Clydesdales’ grand entrance, followed by the introduction of St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson and St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger. Fredbird and Team Fredbird also made appearances, energizing the crowd. At 5:35 p.m., Cardinals Hall of Famers were introduced via a Ford Motorcade around the warning track, riding in 2018 Ford Mustang convertibles. The 2017 Cardinals Hall of Fame Induction Class was also recognized during this segment.
At 5:50 p.m., the Cardinals’ principal owner and CEO, Bill DeWitt Jr., was introduced, followed by the 2018 St. Louis Cardinals players, who entered via a Ford Motorcade in 2018 Ford F-150 Raptors. The Arizona Diamondbacks were then introduced, and a Color Guard presented the American Flag in center field, courtesy of service members from Scott Air Force Base and Fort Leonard Wood.
The national anthem was performed by Colleen Schoendienst, daughter of Hall of Famer Red Schoendienst, at 6:05 p.m., followed by a KC-135 Flyover at 6:07 p.m., weather permitting. The ceremonial first pitch was thrown by Bob Gibson to Tim McCarver, honoring Gibson’s historic 1968 season. The game officially began at 6:15 p.m., with veteran pitcher Adam Wainwright taking the mound for his fifth home opener start, having been activated off the 10-day disabled list.
The 2018 Opening Day at Busch Stadium was more than just the start of a new baseball season; it was a celebration of the team’s rich history, the enduring partnership with Anheuser-Busch, and the vibrant community spirit of St. Louis. The presence of the Budweiser Clydesdales added a touch of grandeur to the festivities, embodying the tradition and pride that define Cardinals baseball.
