St. Louis Cardinals History: Remembering the 1985 National League Champions

The 1985 St. Louis Cardinals remain one of the most memorable and dynamic teams in franchise history. Known for their speed, defense, and grit, they captured the National League pennant with a flair that continues to resonate with fans decades later. Though their World Series run ended in heartbreak, the 1985 Cardinals exemplified the identity of “Whiteyball” and left a lasting legacy in the annals of baseball.

The “Whiteyball” Era Reaches Its Peak

Led by manager Whitey Herzog, the Cardinals of the early to mid-1980s played a style of baseball that was unique in the power-driven Major League landscape. Rather than relying on home runs, Herzog’s teams emphasized speed, defense, and pitching. This strategy, dubbed “Whiteyball,” found its perfect expression in the 1985 squad.

The team finished the regular season with a 101–61 record, the best in the National League. Powered by a roster rich in athleticism and baseball IQ, the Cardinals dominated opponents with aggressive base running, strategic bunts, and relentless pressure on defenses.Key Players: Speed, Skill, and Strategy

At the heart of the 1985 team was center fielder Willie McGee, who won the National League MVP that year. McGee batted .353, collected 216 hits, and stole 56 bases. His presence at the top of the lineup set the tone for the Cardinals’ offensive attack.

Shortstop Ozzie Smith, “The Wizard,” continued to dazzle with his defensive acrobatics and leadership. His performance in the postseason, particularly his iconic walk-off home run in Game 5 of the NLCS — famously called by broadcaster Jack Buck with the phrase “Go crazy, folks!” — etched his name even deeper into Cardinals lore.

Other key contributors included Tom Herr, a clutch hitter and base-stealer; Jack Clark, the team’s primary power threat; and Vince Coleman, the Rookie of the Year who stole an astonishing 110 bases. The pitching staff was anchored by John Tudor, who posted a stellar 1.93 ERA and 21 wins, and Joaquín Andújar, a fiery competitor and 20-game winner.

National League Championship Series: A Dramatic Victory

The Cardinals faced off against the Los Angeles Dodgers in a tightly contested NLCS. After falling behind 2–0 in the series, St. Louis stormed back to win four straight games. The comeback was highlighted by dramatic moments, including Smith’s Game 5 heroics and Clark’s decisive three-run homer in Game 6 at Dodger Stadium.

This series victory secured the Cardinals’ third World Series appearance of the decade and underscored their resilience and flair for the dramatic.

The Controversial World Series

In the 1985 World Series, dubbed the “I-70 Series,” the Cardinals took on their cross-state rivals, the Kansas City Royals. The Cardinals held a 3–1 series lead and seemed destined for their 10th World Championship.

However, controversy struck in Game 6 when umpire Don Denkinger made a now-infamous blown call at first base in the ninth inning. The call, which incorrectly ruled Royals’ Jorge Orta safe, shifted the momentum. Kansas City rallied to win that game and ultimately took Game 7 in dominant fashion.

Though the ending was bitter, the Cardinals’ performance throughout the season and postseason left an indelible mark.

Legacy of the 1985 Cardinals

The 1985 Cardinals are remembered not just for their success, but for how they played the game. In an era increasingly dominated by sluggers, they proved that a different style — one based on speed, smarts, and fundamentals — could still win.

Whitey Herzog’s team helped redefine how success could be achieved in baseball, and the players became legends in St. Louis and beyond. Today, the 1985 Cardinals are celebrated for their character, flair, and the thrilling ride they gave their fans.

For Cardinals Nation, the spirit of that remarkable team lives on — a testament to what teamwork, tenacity, and a little magic can accomplish.