The St. Louis Cardinals history is one of the most celebrated in Major League Baseball. From early championships to modern success, the team has built a lasting tradition. With loyal fans, Hall of Fame players, and a winning culture, St. Louis Cardinals baseball stands as a cornerstone of America’s pastime and a symbol of excellence.
Established
1882
City
St. Louis
League History
2000 – Present / Major League Baseball
1891 – 1999 / National League
1882 – 1891 / American Association
Team History
1882 – Present / St. Louis Cardinals
Nickname
Cardinals – The St. Louis Cardinals are one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, and their nickname carries a long and exciting history. The team was initially known as the Brown Stockings when they joined the National League in 1892 but changed their name to "Cardinals" just two years later after new owner Chris von der Ahe decided he wanted something more colorful for his team.
St. Louis Cardinals Origin
Von der Ahe chose "Cardinals" because of its ties to Catholic Saint Louis University, located near Busch Stadium, where the Cardinals play today. He thought it would be an appropriate name for a baseball club from a crucial religious city like St Louis; plus, it had a nice ring!
But why did Von Der Ahe choose red? Again, this can be traced back to Saint Louis University; At the same time, they don't have any official colors themselves (they use black & white); many schools around them used shades of red or maroon at that time - so Von Der Ahe figured this could represent both his hometown university and also give his team some unique flair compared with other teams in MLB who were sporting primarily blue or green uniforms at that time. And thus began what has become one of the sports' greatest nicknames: The Redbirds!
Over 120 years later of St. Louis Cardinals History, we still refer affectionately refer to our beloved Cards as “the Redbirds” – even though these days you’ll find plenty more than just red on their jersey – but no matter what color scheme they decide on each season (or how well our boys do) there will always be something special about being called “Redbird Nation." So next time you're cheering your favorite players out onto Busch Field, remember all those who came before us wearing those same bright cardinal-red jerseys - let's go, Cards!!
Championship
World Series 11
2011, 2006, 1982, 1967, 1964, 1946, 1944, 1942, 1934, 1931, 1926
Stadium
2006 – Present / Busch Stadium III
1982 – 2005 / Busch Stadium II
1966 – 1982 / Busch Memorial Stadium
1920 – 1966 / Sportsman’s Park III
1953 – 1966 / Busch Stadium I
1893 – 1920 / Robison Field
1917 – 1920 / Cardinal Field
1899 – 1911 / League Park
1893 – 1899 / Sportsman’s Park II
1882 – 1892 / Sportsman’s Park
Owner
1995 – Present / William DeWitt, Jr.
1953 – 1995 / Anheuser-Busch
1947 – 1953 / Fred Saigh
1947 – 1949 / Robert Hannegan
1917 – 1947 / Sam Breadon
1911 – 1917 / Helene Hathaway Britton
1899 – 1911 / Frank & Stanley Robison
1882 – 1899 / Chris von der Ahe
- 1882
- 1926 - 1931
- 1934 - 1944
- 1946 - 1967
- 1982
- 2006
- 2011
-
St. Louis Cardinals Team Formation
After the American Association collapsed, the National League re-enrolled St. Louis to raise the total to twelve. The St. Louis Cardinals have had perpetual affiliation since. Their inaugural season of reentry was largely a disappointment their winning percentage plunged from .625 in 1891 to .373. With an opportunity emerging the next season for a larger property at Vandeventer and Natural ... -
World Series Winner 1926 – 1931
World Series – 1931 In the 1931 World Series, the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Philadelphia Athletics in seven games, a rematch, and reversal of fortunes of the 1930 World Series. World Series – 1926 The 1926 World Series pitted the NL champion St. Louis Cardinals against the AL champion New York Yankees. The Cardinals defeated the Yankees four games ... -
World Series 1934 – 1944
World Series – 1944 The 1944 World Series was an all-St. Louis World Series, matching up the St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis Browns at Sportsman’s Park. It marked only the third time in World Series history in which both teams had the same home field, the other two being the 1921 and 1922 World Series in the Polo Grounds ... -
World Series Winner 1946 – 1967
World Series – 1967 The 1967 World Series matched the St. Louis Cardinals against the Boston Red Sox in a rematch of the 1946 World Series, with the Cardinals winning in seven games for their second championship in four years and their eighth overall. The Series was played from October 4 to 12 in Fenway Park and Busch Memorial Stadium. ... -
World Series Winner 1982
The 1982 World Series matched the St. Louis Cardinals against the Milwaukee Brewers, with the Cardinals winning in seven games. The Cardinals won the National League East division by three games over the Philadelphia Phillies, then defeated the Atlanta Braves by 3 games to none in the National League Championship Series. The Brewers won the American League East division by ... -
World Series Winner 2006
The 2006 World Series, the 102nd edition of Major League Baseball’s championship series, began on October 21 and ended on October 27, and matched the American League champion Detroit Tigers against the National League champion St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals won the Series in five games, taking Games 1, 3, 4, and 5. This was the third Series meeting between ... -
World Series Winner 2011
The 2011 World Series was the 107th edition of Major League Baseball’s championship series. The best-of-seven playoff was played between the American League champion Texas Rangers and the National League champion St. Louis Cardinals, with the Cardinals defeating the Rangers in seven games to win their 11th World Series championship. The Series was noted for its back-and-forth Game 6, in ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
St. Louis Cardinals History
The St. Louis Cardinals history is among the richest in Major League Baseball. Founded in 1882, the Cardinals quickly rose to prominence and built a reputation for excellence. With 11 World Series titles and 23 National League pennants, the franchise ranks second only to the New York Yankees in total championships. Throughout their journey, St. Louis Cardinals baseball has featured legendary players such as Stan Musial, Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, and Ozzie Smith, each leaving a lasting impact on the game.
A major reason for the Cardinals’ consistent success lies in their commitment to strong scouting and player development. Instead of relying only on regional talent, the team sought players nationwide and turned them into championship-caliber stars. This strategy, paired with steady coaching, kept the franchise competitive even when other teams faltered. For example, the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team reached the postseason six consecutive times between 2011 and 2016, a testament to their depth and resilience.
The Cardinals also owe much of their enduring strength to their fan base. Busch Stadium is often packed with loyal supporters, known for creating one of the most electric atmospheres in baseball. Fans across North America and abroad follow games through broadcasts on networks like ESPN Radio International and XM Satellite Radio. This global reach ensures that St. Louis Cardinals history resonates with audiences everywhere, uniting fans regardless of location.
Cardinals Achievements
Beyond fan loyalty, the franchise has built a tradition of remarkable achievements. Their 2011 World Series championship remains one of the most memorable in recent MLB history. In that run, the Cardinals overcame incredible odds, with David Freese’s legendary Game 6 performance cementing the team’s place in baseball lore. Moments like these highlight the resilience that defines St. Louis Cardinals baseball.
The team’s influence stretches beyond wins and titles. With 19 league MVP awards, 15 Rookie of the Year winners, and multiple Cy Young recipients, the Cardinals have continually developed players who shaped the sport. Their ability to balance history with modern competitiveness ensures that the St. Louis Cardinals history will remain one of Major League Baseball’s most celebrated stories for generations to come.
Sports Fan Products
Mount Rushmore St. Louis Cardinals: The Greatest Players in Franchise History! Cardinals Highlights
Let’s explore the Mount Rushmore of St. Louis Cardinals players, featuring the greatest legends in franchise history. This video highlights the all-time best players who defined the Cardinals' legacy, from their career milestones to unforgettable moments. Dive into the stories behind these iconic athletes and see why they deserve a spot among the greatest in baseball history! Don’t miss out!
2024 Central National League Highlights - Best Plays, and Top Moments
🔥🔥Dive into the MLB Central National League 2024 highlights as we bring you the most exciting moments from this year’s Central National League baseball games 2024! Catch the best plays, top moments, and thrilling action from teams like the St. Louis Cardinals, Milwaukee Brewers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, and Chicago Cubs...
Retired Number
1 / Ozzie Smith
2 / Red Schoendienst
6 / Stan Musial
9 / Enos Slaughter
10 / Tony La Russa
14 / Ken Boyer
17 / Dizzy Dean
20 / Lou Brock
24 / Whitey Herzog
42 / Bruce Sutter
42 / Jackie Robinson
45 / Bob Gibson
85 / August Busch Jr.
- / Rogers Hornsby
– / Jack Buck
*Blue is this team’s history