The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals is a tale of two iconic franchises with deep-rooted histories in Major League Baseball.
Dating back to the late 19th century, their competition has spanned generations, captivating fans and shaping the sport’s landscape.
Fueled by passionate fanbases, intense on-field battles, and a rich tradition of success, the Cubs vs.
Cardinals rivalry has produced unforgettable moments etched in baseball lore.
From legendary players and historic trades to dramatic postseason showdowns, this enduring clash remains a pillar of excitement and anticipation, symbolizing the heart and soul of America’s favorite pastime.
History: Chicago Cubs Vs St Louis Cardinals
The history of the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals showcases two of the most iconic and successful franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Both teams have deep-rooted histories, passionate fanbases, and have played a significant role in shaping the sport’s landscape. . . .
Let’s compare the histories of the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals
Championships and Success
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs’ history is defined by one of the most notorious championship droughts in sports. After winning the World Series in 1907 and 1908, the team went without a title for 108 years until they finally broke the curse in 2016.
Despite the prolonged championship drought, the Cubs have enjoyed success in the regular season, winning multiple division titles and making several playoff appearances.
St. Louis Cardinals: The Cardinals have a rich and storied history of success in MLB. They have won multiple World Series titles, including championships in 1926, 1931, 1934, 1942, 1944, 1946, 1964, 1967, 1982, 2006, and 2011.
With their 11 World Series titles (as of my last update in September 2021), the Cardinals are second only to the New York Yankees in total championships.
Legendary Players
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs have been home to numerous legendary players throughout their history. Hall of Famers such as Ernie Banks, Ryne Sandberg, Ron Santo, and Billy Williams have all donned the Cubs’ uniform.
Additionally, the 2016 championship team featured stars like Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Javier Báez.
St. Louis Cardinals: The Cardinals have a remarkable tradition of producing legendary players. Stan Musial, often regarded as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, is synonymous with the Cardinals.
Other Hall of Fame players who made their mark in St. Louis include Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, Ozzie Smith, and Albert Pujols.
Ballparks
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs play their home games at Wrigley Field, one of the most iconic and oldest ballparks in baseball. Known for its ivy-covered brick walls and the historic manual scoreboard, Wrigley Field is a beloved venue that adds to the charm and tradition of the Cubs franchise.
St. Louis Cardinals: The Cardinals call Busch Stadium home, which has been the site of many memorable moments in baseball history. The stadium has seen several renovations and is known for its great fan atmosphere and scenic views of the St. Louis skyline.
Fanbase: Chicago Cubs Vs St Louis Cardinals
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have a massive and devoted fanbase that is often referred to as the “Cubs Nation” or the “Cubs faithful.” Despite enduring one of the longest championship droughts in sports history, lasting over a century, Cubs fans remained steadfast in their support.
Their loyalty was evident in the countless sold-out games at Wrigley Field, the team’s iconic home stadium.
One of the defining characteristics of Cubs fans is their unwavering optimism and love for the team, even during times of struggle.
The team’s motto, “Wait Till Next Year,” became a rallying cry for the fans as they maintained hope for a championship despite years of disappointment.
The Cubs’ 2016 World Series victory was a monumental moment for the fanbase, as generations of Cubs fans finally saw their team hoist the championship trophy after a 108-year wait.
The victory sparked jubilant celebrations not only in Chicago but also among Cubs fans worldwide.
St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals have one of the most dedicated and knowledgeable fanbases in MLB. Known for their loyalty and deep connection to the team, Cardinals fans are often called the “Best Fans in Baseball.” They take great pride in supporting their team, and Busch Stadium in St.
Louis is consistently filled with passionate fans cheering on their beloved Cardinals.
One of the reasons for the strong Cardinals fanbase is the team’s rich history of success, including numerous World Series championships.
Cardinals fans have witnessed some of the game’s greatest players, and they take pride in the franchise’s legacy.
The rivalry between the Cubs and the Cardinals adds an extra dimension to the fanbases’ passion. When the two teams meet, the games are fiercely contested, and both sets of fans bring their energy and enthusiasm to the ballpark or engage in friendly banter on social media and elsewhere.
Iconic Moments: Chicago Cubs Vs St Louis Cardinals Rivalry
The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals has produced numerous iconic moments over the years.
These moments have added drama, excitement, and historical significance to the storied competition between the two National League Central Division foes.
Here are some of the most memorable and iconic moments from the Cubs vs. Cardinals rivalry
The “Gashouse Gang” Era (1930s)
During the 1930s, the Cardinals were known for their gritty, hard-nosed style of play, earning the nickname “Gashouse Gang.” The Cubs and the Cardinals had several heated clashes during this era, with both teams battling for supremacy in the National League.
The “Brock for Broglio” Trade (1964)
One of the most significant trades in MLB history involved the Cubs and the Cardinals. In June 1964, the Cardinals acquired outfielder Lou Brock from the Cubs in exchange for pitcher Ernie Broglio.
Brock went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Cardinals, becoming one of the greatest base-stealers and offensive threats in baseball history.
The trade is often cited as one of the most lopsided deals in MLB history, heavily favoring the Cardinals.
Cardinals Clinch the Division at Wrigley Field (1984)
The 1984 season saw the Cubs and the Cardinals battle for the National League East Division title. The Cardinals clinched the division on the last day of the season at Wrigley Field, the home of their rivals.
It was a heartbreaking moment for Cubs fans, but it underscored the intensity of the rivalry and the significance of head-to-head matchups between the two teams.
Mcgwire Vs. Sosa Home Run Chase (1998)
The 1998 season witnessed an unforgettable home run chase between Cardinals slugger Mark McGwire and Cubs star Sammy Sosa. Both players were vying to break Roger Maris’ single-season home run record of 61, and their remarkable power displays captivated the baseball world.
McGwire ultimately set a new record with 70 home runs, while Sosa finished the season with 66. This historic and thrilling competition brought extra attention to the Cubs vs. Cardinals rivalry.
2015 and 2016 Postseason Showdowns
In 2015, the Cubs and the Cardinals met in the National League Division Series (NLDS). The Cardinals won the series, but the intense and high-stakes playoff matchup further fueled the rivalry.
In 2016, the teams met again in the NLDS, and the Cubs exacted revenge by defeating the Cardinals en route to their historic World Series title that year.
Wrigley Field Hosts the 2016 Nlcs
In 2016, the Cubs and the Cardinals once again met in the postseason, this time in the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Wrigley Field was the site of some electrifying games as the Cubs prevailed and advanced to the World Series, ultimately ending their long championship drought.
Recent Performance: Chicago Cubs Vs St Louis Cardinals
June 24, 2023 – Cubs 9, Cardinals 1
Dominant pitching performance by Cubs’ ace Kyle Hendricks.
Cubs’ offense explodes for nine runs on 14 hits, including home runs by Kris Bryant and Willson Contreras.
June 25, 2023 – Cardinals 5, Cubs 4
Close game decided by a walk-off single by Paul Goldschmidt in the bottom of the ninth inning.
Cubs tie the game in the ninth with a two-run homer by Anthony Rizzo.
July 22, 2023 – Cubs 8, Cardinals 6
Wet and wild matchup with four rain delays and a combined 10 errors.
Cubs overcome a 6-4 deficit in the seventh inning with a four-run rally, highlighted by a three-run double by Cody Bellinger.
July 23, 2023 – Cubs 6, Cardinals 2
Solid outing by Cubs’ rookie pitcher Adbert Alzolay, allowing two runs and striking out six in six innings.
Cubs’ offense led by Javier Baez’s two solo homers and three RBIs.
Current Standings (as of July 24, 2023).
Chicago Cubs: Leading the NL Central with a record of 58-39 and a +82 run differential.
St. Louis Cardinals: Third in the NL Central with a record of 50-47 and a -16 run differential.
Chicago Cubs Vs St Louis Cardinals Rivalry
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1907 | Sep 22 | St. Louis | Chicago Cubs | 3-2 |
| 1929 | Jul 4 | Chicago (Wrigley) | St. Louis | 11-7 |
| 1945 | Oct 3 | Chicago (Wrigley) | Chicago Cubs | 3-1 |
| 1964 | Sep 27 | St. Louis | St. Louis | 9-5 |
| 1984 | Sep 30 | Chicago (Wrigley) | St. Louis | 6-3 |
| 1998 | Sep 8 | St. Louis | St. Louis | 2-1 |
| 2011 | Sep 25 | St. Louis | St. Louis | 3-2 |
| 2015 | Oct 13 | St. Louis | St. Louis | 6-4 |
| 2016 | Oct 11 | Chicago (Wrigley) | Chicago Cubs | 6-4 |
| 2019 | Jun 9 | Chicago (Wrigley) | St. Louis | 5-1 |
| 2021 | Jul 11 | St. Louis | St. Louis | 10-5 |
FAQs
When did the rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals begin?
The rivalry dates back to the late 19th century, with their first official meeting occurring on April 10, 1892, as members of the National League.
How many World Series titles have the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals won?
The Chicago Cubs have won three World Series titles (1907, 1908, and 2016), while the St. Louis Cardinals have won 11 World Series titles (as of that date).
What is the significance of the “Gashouse Gang” era in the Cubs vs. Cardinals rivalry?
The “Gashouse Gang” era (1930s) is significant as it represents a period of intense competition between the two teams. The Cardinals were known for their gritty style of play during this time, and clashes with the Cubs added to the rivalry’s intensity.
What is the “Brock for Broglio” trade, and why is it noteworthy in the rivalry’s history?
The “Brock for Broglio” trade took place in 1964 when the Cardinals acquired Lou Brock from the Cubs in exchange for pitcher Ernie Broglio. The trade became famous as Brock’s exceptional performance with the Cardinals made it one of the most lopsided trades in MLB history.
How did the 2016 NLCS matchup between the Cubs and the Cardinals impact the rivalry?
The 2016 NLCS matchup between the Cubs and the Cardinals was a significant postseason showdown that added to the rivalry’s intensity. The Cubs emerged victorious and advanced to the World Series, contributing to their historic championship run that year.
To Recap
The rivalry between the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals stands as one of the most storied and enduring competitions in Major League Baseball.
Over the years, their matchups have produced iconic moments, passionate fanbases, and a rich history of success for both teams.
From historic trades and home run chases to intense postseason battles, the Cubs vs.
Cardinals rivalry has captured the imagination of baseball fans worldwide.
As the two franchises continue to face off, their storied history and deep-rooted traditions add an extra layer of excitement to each encounter, ensuring that this rivalry remains a cornerstone of the sport’s legacy.
