Velázquez erupts sellout crowd on game-winning three-run homer

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Memphis Redbirds continued a six-game homestand with a 7-4 victory over the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (Triple-A, Miami Marlins) on Saturday night at AutoZone Park.

In front of the second sellout AutoZone Park crowd of the week, left fielder Nelson Velázquez belted a game-winning three-run home run to cap off a five-run eighth inning. Memphis defeated Jacksonville on an eight-inning home run for the second consecutive night.

The Redbirds rally started with a pinch-hit single from Bryan Torres. After catcher Jimmy Crooks walked intentionally, third baseman Blaze Jordan singled him home to bring Memphis within a run. With two outs in the frame, first baseman Bligh Madris tied the game with a flair to right and set up the Velázquez game-winning blast.

Starting pitcher Quinn Mathews allowed two runs on two hits, walked four and struck out four in 5.0 innings pitched. Both runs allowed in the game scored on a two-run homer in the second inning. Ryan Fernandez and Max Rajcic (S, 3) each pitched a perfect inning of relief and struck out one.

With the win, Memphis moved a game above the Gwinnett Stripers atop the International League standings. The Redbirds have spent every day of the 2026 season in at least a tie for first place.

The Memphis Redbirds return to AutoZone Park on Sunday, May 17 to continue a six-game series against the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (Triple-A, Miami Marlins) with first pitch scheduled for 1:05 p.m. CDT.

About the Memphis Redbirds

The Memphis Redbirds are the proud Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. Since their affiliation with St. Louis began in 1998, the Redbirds have claimed four League Championships and one Triple-A National Championship. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, the Redbirds play their home games at AutoZone Park, one of the premier ballparks in the nation. Alongside their parent company, Diamond Baseball Holdings, the Redbirds are committed to providing an exceptional baseball experience for fans of all ages, featuring top Cardinals prospects, exciting promotions, and a family-friendly atmosphere. With a tradition of excellence both on and off the field, the Memphis Redbirds actively contribute to the community by hosting a wide variety of events at AutoZone Park and participating in numerous charitable initiatives. For more information, visit www.memphisredbirds.com.

Contact

Memphis Redbirds Communications Team, (901) 721-6000 or [email protected]