WATCH: Joc Pederson skies 409-foot homer on opening pitch against Cardinals

Joc Pederson became the first Cub to go yard on the first pitch of the game since fellow left fielder Kyle Schwarber did so in 2019.

by Cole Little - Senior Writer - Fri May 21 20:32:39 GMT-05:00 2021

ST. LOUIS – The very first pitch of the season series between the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals was sent into the seats on Friday, with Cubs leadoff man Joc Pederson swatting an opening-pitch cutter out to right-center at Busch Stadium. Coming in the opening plate appearance of the first meeting of the season for the National League Central foes, Pederson's blast gave the Cubbies an early 1-0 lead over the Redbirds.

Starter Carlos Martinez was taken deep by Pederson on a 90.9-mph cutter thrown over the plate. Marking the second homer and 11th RBI of the year for the left fielder, the towering no-doubter traveled 409 feet after leaving the bat at 102 mph and 31 degrees. Pederson continues to make an impact in the Cubs' lineup since returning from a stint on the injured list earlier this month.

St. Louis is exciting!@yungjoc650 #CubTogether pic.twitter.com/AUoEJ2X8As
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 22, 2021

The 1st @Cubs player to homer on the 1st pitch of the game since Kyle Schwarber in 2019.#CubTogether pic.twitter.com/MVSI3TETut
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) May 22, 2021

Leadoff Joc!#CubTogether pic.twitter.com/FrbghUcuEa
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 22, 2021

#Cubs 1 @ #STLCards 0 [T1-0o]:

Joc Pederson homers (2): fly ball to RCF (solo)

Hit: 409ft, 102mph, 31°??

Pitch: 90.9mph Cutter (RHP Carlos Martínez, 3)
— Home Run Tracker (@DingerTracker) May 22, 2021