RetroSeasons recaps past sports seasons through stories, photos, videos, and stats from every team, league, and stadium in history. Coverage includes the NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL, as well as vintage media from defunct teams and leagues.
In 1881, entrepreneur Chris von der Ahe purchased the Brown Stockings barnstorming club, renamed it the St. Louis Browns, and made it a charter member of the American Association baseball league. The team won four league championships, qualifying them to play in the era's professional baseball championship tournament, a forerunner of the modern World Series. In two of these championships, the Browns met the Chicago White Stockings, launching the enduring Cardinals–Cubs rivalry.
In 1892, the Browns – also called the Perfectos – joined the National League. In 1900, the team was renamed the Cardinals. (Two years later, an unrelated St. Louis Browns team joined the American League.)
Notable Cardinals achievements include manager/owner Branch Rickey's invention of the farm system, Rogers Hornsby's two batting Triple Crowns, Dizzy Dean's 30-win season in 1934, Stan Musial's 17 MLB and 29 NL records, Bob Gibson's 1.12 earned run average (ERA) in 1968, Whitey Herzog's Whiteyball, Mark McGwire's single-season home run record in 1998, and the 2011 championship team's unprecedented comebacks. The Cardinals have won 105 or more games in four seasons and won 100 or more nine times. Cardinals players have won 20 league MVPs, four batting Triple Crowns, and three Cy Young Awards. Baseball Hall of Fame inductees include Lou Brock, Dizzy Dean, Bob Gibson, Whitey Herzog, Rogers Hornsby, Joe Medwick, Stan Musial, Branch Rickey, Red Schoendienst, Ozzie Smith, and Bruce Sutter.
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New York Mets vs St. Louis Cardinals - Clincher - Radio Broadcast
On Sunday, October 4, 1964, the St. Louis Cardinals hosted the New York Mets at Busch Stadium I. The Cardinals' starting pitcher was Curt Simmons, a seasoned left-handed veteran who had been a key part of the team's rotation throughout the year. On the mound for the Mets was Galen Cisco, a right-hander who had struggled at times during the season. The Cardinals were in the midst of a tight pennant race, while the Mets, only in their third season, were still finding their footing in the league. The game held significant implications for the Cardinals, who were vying for a spot in the World Series. Meanwhile, the Mets were looking to play spoiler and finish their season on a high note.
The game started off as a pitcher's duel, with both teams failing to score in the first inning. However, the Cardinals broke the deadlock in the second inning, and the game quickly became a back-and-forth affair. The Mets' Charley Smith hit a solo home run in the fourth inning, and the team added two more runs in the fifth. The Cardinals responded each time, with key hits from their lineup, including doubles from Tim McCarver, Dick Groat, and Ken Boyer. The Cardinals' offense really took off in the sixth inning, with a two-run home run from Bill White, and they added three more runs in the eighth to pull away from the Mets.
In the end, the Cardinals triumphed with an 11-5 victory over the Mets, a crucial win in their pursuit of the pennant. The Cardinals' win, along with the Philadelphia Phillies' loss on the same day, clinched the National League pennant for St. Louis, marking their first return to the World Series since 1946. The win also highlighted the depth of the Cardinals' lineup, with multiple players contributing key hits. The 1964 season was a memorable one, with the Cardinals eventually defeating the New York Yankees in the World Series, while the Mets, despite their loss in this game, continued to build their team, culminating in a World Series win just five years later in 1969.
In the first-ever meeting between the expansion Arizona Diamondbacks and the St. Louis Cardinals, there...
Diamondbacks @ Cardinals (McGwire 3 HR Game) / In the first-ever meeting between the expansion Arizona Diamondbacks and the St. Louis Cardinals, there were a lot of offensive fireworks. Mark McGwire, who had not homered since the fourth game of the season, went on a tear, sinking the Arizona pitching with three home runs. Matt Williams hit a Grand Slam in support of future Cardinals postseason hero Jeff Suppan (whose last name is mispronounced throughout the game by Joe Buck and Al Hrabosky as 'Sue-pan') for Arizona, but St. Louis came away with a 15-5 victory.
In 1982, the sports broadcasting landscape was graced by the iconic voice of Jack Buck,...
1982 St. Louis Cardinals Celebration & Highlights / In 1982, the sports broadcasting landscape was graced by the iconic voice of Jack Buck, whose vivid narrations and heartfelt enthusiasm captured the essence of baseball like few others could. This particular year was momentous for Jack Buck and the St. Louis Cardinals, as it marked a significant period in both their trajectories. Buck, having been the voice of the Cardinals since the late 1950s, brought not just experience but a deep connection to the team and its fanbase to his broadcasts. The 1982 season saw the Cardinals clinch their first World Series title since 1967, a victory that was not just a win but a resurgence of the team's prominence in Major League Baseball.
The celebration and highlights broadcast of the 1982 St. Louis Cardinals encapsulate the jubilation and the strategic masterstrokes that defined their season. Through Jack Buck's narrative, listeners are transported to key moments that defined the Cardinals' journey to victory, from dramatic playoff games to the final out that sealed their World Series triumph. His commentary does not just recount events; it revives the emotions and the electric atmosphere of the stadium, making it a timeless piece for any baseball aficionado or historian of the sport. This broadcast remains a testament to Buck’s legendary career and his ability to weave the thrill of the game into every word he spoke.
MLB Network's "Baseball's Seasons" series takes a look at the season of 1982; examining the...
MLB Baseball's Seasons: 1982 / MLB Network's "Baseball's Seasons" series takes a look at the season of 1982; examining the pennant races, achievements, events and players that made this a memorable year in baseball.
On September 2, 1972, the Los Angeles Dodgers faced off against the St. Louis Cardinals...
Los Angeles Dodgers vs St. Louis Cardinals - Radio Broadcast / On September 2, 1972, the Los Angeles Dodgers faced off against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium II. Starting for the Dodgers was Doug Rau, a left-handed pitcher making his Major League debut, while the Cardinals sent out Durham to the mound. The 1972 season was an interesting one for both teams. The Dodgers were in the midst of a rebuilding phase, having traded away some of their established stars in the previous year. Meanwhile, the Cardinals were coming off a successful 1971 campaign and were looking to repeat their success. The league was also experiencing a significant story in 1972, as it was the year of the first players' strike in Major League Baseball history, which had led to the cancellation of some games earlier in the season.
The game started off quietly, with both teams failing to score in the first inning. However, the Dodgers broke the deadlock in the second inning, scoring four runs. This scoring spree was initiated by a walk to Crawford and a single by Valentine. A wild pitch by Durham moved the runners to second and third, followed by an intentional walk to Russell. This set the stage for Yeager, who tripled to left, clearing the bases. Rau, in his debut game, followed suit with a triple of his own, scoring Yeager and putting the Dodgers up 4-0. The Cardinals' pitching struggled to contain the Dodgers' offense, with Durham being replaced by Palmer partway through the second inning.
The Cardinals' offense, on the other hand, was held in check by Rau. The Cardinals managed only three hits and one run, which came in the seventh inning when Jutze doubled and was driven in by Carbo. The Dodgers scored one more run in the sixth inning, with Yeager scoring on a single by Lacy. The Dodgers' pitching was the star of the game, with Rau going the distance, giving up only one run on three hits in his Major League debut.
The Dodgers' 5-1 victory over the Cardinals was a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season for the team. Despite their struggles, the Dodgers would go on to finish the season in second place in the National League West, while the Cardinals would finish fourth in the National League East. The 1972 season was also notable for the performance of Steve Carlton of the Philadelphia Phillies, who won the Cy Young Award after an outstanding season in which he won 27 games for a team that won only 59 games in total. Meanwhile, the Oakland Athletics would go on to win the World Series, defeating the Cincinnati Reds in seven games.
On August 14, 1971, the St. Louis Cardinals took on the Pittsburgh Pirates at Three...
1971 Pittsburgh Pirates vs St. Louis Cardinals - Bob Gibson - Radio Broadcast / On August 14, 1971, the St. Louis Cardinals took on the Pittsburgh Pirates at Three Rivers Stadium. The Cardinals, managed by Red Schoendienst, were looking to improve their standing in the National League East, while the Pirates, managed by Danny Murtaugh, were leading the division and having a strong season. Bob Gibson, a seasoned and dominant pitcher, started for the Cardinals, and Bob Johnson took the mound for the Pirates. This game was crucial for the Cardinals as they aimed to close the gap in the standings, whereas the Pirates were focused on solidifying their lead.
The Cardinals came out strong right from the start, scoring five runs in the first inning, highlighted by a three-run home run from Joe Hague. Gibson delivered a masterful performance on the mound, keeping the Pirates' hitters off balance and preventing any runs. The Cardinals continued to pile on the runs, with additional contributions from Ted Simmons, who had four hits, and Joe Torre, who also had a four-hit game. By the fifth inning, the Cardinals had extended their lead to 8-0, and they never looked back, adding three more runs in the eighth inning to seal a commanding lead.
The game ended with a resounding 11-0 victory for the Cardinals, with Gibson throwing a no-hitter, walking three, and striking out ten. This victory was a significant boost for the Cardinals in their bid to climb the standings, while the Pirates remained on top of the National League East. The Pirates went on to win the division and eventually the World Series, showcasing their resilience and talent throughout the season.
#BobGibson #JoeHague #TedSimmons #JoeTorre #Cardinals #Pirates #ThreeRiversStadium #1971Baseball #MLB #NoHitter
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
SABR Speech by Baseball Player Mike Shannon / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
On April 11, 1962, the St. Louis Cardinals hosted the New York Mets at Busch...
1962 New York Mets vs St. Louis Cardinals - Radio Broadcast / On April 11, 1962, the St. Louis Cardinals hosted the New York Mets at Busch Stadium I, marking a notable early-season matchup. The game featured starting pitchers who faced the daunting task of navigating through lineups filled with potential. This encounter came at a time when the Mets, newly introduced to the league, were establishing their identity, while the Cardinals, with a storied history, aimed to continue their tradition of excellence. Significant for the Mets was their effort to carve out a foothold in the league against established teams like the Cardinals, whose lineup boasted seasoned players capable of explosive offense.
During the game, the Cardinals demonstrated their offensive strength early on, putting up a solid performance that included multiple multi-hit innings. Key players for the Cardinals, such as Roger Carr and Bert Jones, connected well, driving in crucial runs. The Mets, despite being outmatched, showed flashes of resilience, with players like Neal and Hodges contributing home runs. The game unfolded with the Cardinals consistently building on their lead, capitalizing on strategic hits and taking advantage of the Mets' fielding errors, which were indicative of their growing pains as a new team in the league.
The final score, Cardinals 11 and Mets 4, reflected the difference in experience and cohesion between the two teams at that point in the season. The Cardinals' ability to execute offensively and their efficient use of scoring opportunities highlighted their game strategy and depth. For the Mets, the game was a learning experience, underscoring the challenges of competing in the major leagues.
Hosted by retired NFL star Kyle Rote, these 5-minute programs feature interviews with some of the top figures in sports
Tops-in-Sports interview with Ken Boyer / Hosted by retired NFL star Kyle Rote, these 5-minute programs feature interviews with some of the top figures in sports during 1962
Hosted by retired NFL star Kyle Rote, these 5-minute programs feature interviews with some of the top figures in sports
Tops-in-Sports interview with Stan Musial / Hosted by retired NFL star Kyle Rote, these 5-minute programs feature interviews with some of the top figures in sports during 1962
In a vintage radio broadcast from the year 1955, a captivating exchange unfolds between two...
Harry Caray and Joe Garagiola interview August Busch Jr - Radio Broadcast / In a vintage radio broadcast from the year 1955, a captivating exchange unfolds between two notable figures—interviewer Joe Garagiola and August Busch Jr. The setting is a baseball arena, where Garagiola's career as a beloved sports commentator intersects with Busch's role as an influential figure in the brewing industry. 1955 marked a pivotal year for both men: Garagiola was already gaining recognition for his insightful sports coverage, while Busch was at the helm of Anheuser-Busch, a company that would soon become a household name.
In their conversation, listeners are transported back to an era where the crack of baseball bats and the roar of the crowd were captured through the airwaves. Garagiola's earnest approach to questioning and Busch's candid responses offer a genuine glimpse into the shared enthusiasm for baseball and the nuances of its connection to the American spirit. As the two personalities engage, the essence of a simpler time and the passion they held for their respective fields become evident, echoing beyond the confines of the radio waves into the annals of history.
In this audio clip from 1948, we're presented with a piece of baseball history featuring...
The Dizzy Dean Show - Country Baseball - Radio Broadcast / In this audio clip from 1948, we're presented with a piece of baseball history featuring the inimitable Jay Hanna "Dizzy" Dean. By this time, Dean, a former Major League Baseball pitcher, had hung up his gloves after a prolific career from 1930 to 1947. Known for his vibrant personality and exceptional pitching skills, Dean was a standout figure in the baseball world. His contributions to the sport would later earn him a well-deserved spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1953.
The year 1948 was a significant one in the context of baseball and Dean's career. Having recently retired, Dean was transitioning from his role as a player to a broadcaster, a shift that allowed him to remain closely connected to the sport he loved. This clip provides a glimpse into that period of transformation.
As you listen, consider the broader context of the era. The Second World War had just ended, and America's favorite pastime was on the cusp of a new, exciting chapter. This conversation offers a unique insight into that time, capturing the spirit and resilience of the baseball community.
On Tuesday, September 26, 1939, the Cincinnati Reds faced off against the St. Louis Cardinals...
St. Louis Cardinals vs Cincinnati Reds - Clincher - Radio Broadcast / On Tuesday, September 26, 1939, the Cincinnati Reds faced off against the St. Louis Cardinals at Crosley Field. The starting pitchers for the day were Davis for the Cardinals and Thompson for the Reds. The 1939 season was a significant one, with the Reds sitting atop the National League and the Cardinals not far behind. The Reds were looking to clinify their first pennant since 1919, while the Cardinals were hoping to repeat their World Series success from just a few years prior in 1934. The game was also set against the backdrop of an eventful season for Major League Baseball, with the first televised baseball game taking place earlier that year, and the onset of World War II casting uncertainty over future seasons.
The game started off with both teams holding their own, with the first inning ending scoreless. The second inning, however, saw a shift in momentum when the Reds' shortstop Myers hit a home run, sending Lombardi and Craft home and giving the Reds a 3-0 lead. This was a significant moment in the game, as Myers' home run was only his ninth of the season. Despite the Cardinals' best efforts, they were unable to score in the second inning, leaving the Reds with a comfortable lead.
In the following innings, the Cardinals made several attempts to close the gap. Their most significant scoring opportunity came in the third inning when Medwick hit a double, his second of the game, allowing the Cardinals to score their only run. Despite this, the Reds' defense, led by Thompson, managed to hold the Cardinals at bay. The Cardinals' pitching staff also worked hard to prevent the Reds from extending their lead, with Davis, Shoun, Bowman, Warneke, and Weiland all taking the mound throughout the game. However, the Reds' early lead proved insurmountable, and the game ended with a 3-1 victory for the Reds.
After this game, the Cincinnati Reds went on to win the National League pennant, their first in 20 years, and advanced to the World Series. However, they were defeated by the New York Yankees in a four-game sweep. Despite their loss in this particular game, the Cardinals had a strong season, finishing second in the National League. The 1939 season also saw several individual accomplishments, with Johnny Mize of the Cardinals leading the league in home runs and RBIs, and Lombardi of the Reds winning the National League MVP award.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Outfielder Enos Slaughter / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
The 1936 season between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs was marked by...
St. Louis Cardinals vs Chicago Cubs - Radio Broadcast / The 1936 season between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs was marked by intense competition between the two National League rivals. Throughout the season, both teams demonstrated strong performances and sought to secure a spot in the playoffs.
August was a crucial month for both the Cardinals and the Cubs. The Cardinals, led by their star player Dizzy Dean, had a standout season with exceptional pitching performances. Dean was a dominant force on the mound and played a pivotal role in the Cardinals' success throughout the year. In August, Dean continued to excel, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's best pitchers.
On the other hand, the Chicago Cubs showcased their offensive firepower during the 1936 season. Players like Gabby Hartnett and Billy Herman led the team's hitting attack, providing consistent contributions to the lineup. In August, the Cubs' offense remained potent, putting up impressive numbers in key games.
The rivalry between the two teams intensified during their matchups in August. The Cardinals and the Cubs were neck-and-neck in the standings, making each head-to-head encounter critical for both sides. These games were fiercely contested and had a significant impact on their positioning in the standings.
Overall, the 1936 season saw the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs engaged in a fierce battle for supremacy in the National League. With Dizzy Dean's dominant pitching and the Cubs' powerful hitting, both teams made their case for a spot in the playoffs. The competition between the Cardinals and the Cubs, especially during the pivotal month of August, added excitement to the baseball season and further solidified the historic rivalry between these two storied franchises.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Bob Weiland / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Speech by Infielder Andy High / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Hall of Fame Pitcher Jesse Haines / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.
Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.
Interview with Baseball Player Charlie Grimm / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.