Everything you need to know about MLB’s new expanded wild card, postseason
It’s October and postseason baseball is finally here. MLB writer Steve Gardner explains the new expanded MLB postseason and gets you ready for this weekend’s action.
USA TODAY
Yadier Molina and Albert Pujols took their final bow in front of the St. Louis Cardinals’ faithful on Saturday night.
For nearly two decades, both players led the iconic organization. Molina spent 19 years as the heart and soul of the Cardinals. The MLB ironman is a 10-time All-Star and nine-time Gold Glove recipient. Pujols spent 12 years in St. Louis and won three National League MVPs in his tenure.
RELATED: St. Louis Cardinals honor legends during last regular-season home game
GRAPHICS: With 703rd home run, Albert Pujols surpasses Babe Ruth’s RBI mark
Pujols belted 469 home runs with the Cardinals. This season, he became the fourth player in MLB history to hit 700 or more career homers.
The Cardinals celebrated their storied career on social media. The organization thanked both players for their contributions in St. Louis.
The Cardinals fell short against the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Wild Card Series, ending both players’ careers. The Phillies advanced to play the Atlanta Braves in the NL Divisional Series.
Several players also praised Molina and Pujols after the series.
“Sad to see two legends go,” Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright told USA TODAY Sports reporter Bob Nightengale. “I don’t know if we’ll see a catcher like him again. I don’t know if we’ll see 700 again. It’s been a blessing and pleasure for me to be a teammate.”
Wainwright spent many years alongside Molina and Pujols. The trio won the 2006 World Series together and paved the way for the current generation of St. Louis superstars. Wainwright and Molina also set the league record for most starts a pitcher-catcher duo.
Despite the season-ending loss, both Pujols and Molina were appreciative of their MLB careers. They reflected on their journey with local reporters.
“There’s nothing to be sad about,” Pujols told reporters. “I tried my best. There’s nothing I should feel sorry for. I closed that chapter of my life and will enjoy the next chapter of my life too. I’m sure it will be fun.”
Molina agreed. He is looking forward to watching the Cardinals in the future.
“We got some great talent here,” Molina said. “They’re going to be in this situation for many years, I guarantee that. Hopefully, they can win it all.”
Both Pujols and Molina are ticketed for the MLB Hall of Fame. For now, they will be celebrated for special careers spanning a combined 41 years.
