The St. Louis Cardinals are one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball history. Fans have numerous players to collect, including legends Stan Musial, Ozzie Smith and Albert Pujols.
HobbyListings takes a look at the top eight best Cardinals cards every collector needs. Did one of your favorites not make the cut? Sound off in the comments!
1. 1948 Leaf Stan Musial Rookie Card (#4)
Known as “Stan the Man,” Stan Musial is one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, spending his entire 22-year career with the Cardinals. He was a three-time MVP, 24-time All-Star, and led the Cardinals to three World Series titles.
2. 1959 Topps Bob Gibson Rookie Card (#514)
Bob Gibson was one of the most dominant pitchers of his era. Known for his intimidating presence and fierce competitiveness, Gibson spent his entire 17-year career with the Cardinals, winning two Cy Young Awards and two World Series MVPs.
3. 1979 Topps Ozzie Smith Rookie Card (#116)
Ozzie Smith was one of the greatest defensive shortstops of all time. “The Wizard” was known for his acrobatic defense and became a beloved figure in St. Louis.
4. 2001 Bowman Chrome Albert Pujols Refractor Autograph Rookie Card (#340)
Albert Pujols was one of the premier hitters in baseball during his time with the Cardinals. In his 11 seasons with the Cardinals, Pujols won three MVP awards and two World Series titles, solidifying his status as a modern Cardinals legend.
5. 1933 Goudey Rogers Hornsby (#119)
Rogers Hornsby is considered one of the greatest right-handed hitters in baseball history, winning two Triple Crowns and leading the Cardinals to their first World Series title in 1926.
6. 1962 Topps Lou Brock Rookie Card (#387)
Lou Brock’s rookie card, though depicting him with the Chicago Cubs, is a key collectible for Cardinals fans. Acquired by the Cardinals in 1964, Brock became a base-stealing legend and a key player in two World Series championships.
7. 2004 Topps Chrome Yadier Molina Rookie Card (#219)
Yadier Molina was the heart and soul of the Cardinals. Known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership, Molina was a cornerstone of the Cardinals for over a decade, winning two World Series championships during his 19-year career.
8. 1985 Topps Mark McGwire (#401)
Mark McGwire captivated the nation in 1998 while battling Sammy Sosa for Roger Maris’ single-season home run record. McGwire ended up belting 70 home runs that season, which was the single-season record until 2001 when Barry Bonds smacked 73. McGwire’s power-hitting prowess and the excitement he brought to St. Louis make this card special for fans.
History of the St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals have a history marked by legendary players, iconic moments, and consistent success. Let’s explore the lavish tapestry of this venerable team’s journey through the annals of baseball.
Early Years and Establishing Dominance
- Founded in 1882: Originally known as the St. Louis Brown Stockings, the Cardinals are one of the oldest teams in baseball.
- 1926 World Series Champions: The Cardinals won their first World Series title in 1926, led by Rogers Hornsby, one of the greatest hitters in baseball history.
The Gashouse Gang and Post-War Success
- 1934 World Series: Known as the “Gashouse Gang” for their rough-and-tumble style, the Cardinals captured the World Series, showcasing their tenacity and team spirit.
- Stan Musial Era: Stan “The Man” Musial, one of the greatest hitters of all time, led the Cardinals to three World Series titles in the 1940s. His career spanned 22 seasons, all with the Cardinals, making him a beloved figure in St. Louis.
The Bob Gibson and Lou Brock Era
- 1960s Dominance: The Cardinals, led by ace pitcher Bob Gibson and base-stealing legend Lou Brock, won World Series titles in 1964, 1967, and 1968. Gibson’s 1968 season, where he posted a 1.12 ERA, remains one of the most dominant pitching performances in history.
The Whitey Herzog Years
- 1980s Success: Managed by Whitey Herzog, the Cardinals in the 1980s were known for their speed and defense. They won the World Series in 1982 and captured National League pennants in 1985 and 1987.
Key Players Through the Decades
- Ozzie Smith: Known as “The Wizard,” Smith dazzled with his defensive prowess at shortstop and became a fan favorite for his acrobatic plays.
- Albert Pujols: In the early 2000s, Pujols emerged as one of the game’s premier hitters, leading the Cardinals to World Series titles in 2006 and 2011.
- Yadier Molina: A cornerstone of the Cardinals in the 21st century, Molina is renowned for his exceptional catching skills, leadership, and longevity.
Recent Success and Modern Era
- 2006 and 2011 World Series Victories: The Cardinals, blending veteran presence with emerging talent, captured two more championships, continuing their tradition of excellence.
- Consistent Contenders: The Cardinals have remained perennial contenders, known for their strong farm system, and a solid mix of veterans and young players.