MP's Journal

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I was trying to figure out who is going to do it tonight and I found the list so far,
I THINK the end will be:
Number One: Ozzie Smith
Number Two: Red Schoendiest
Number Three:
Number Four:
Number Five:
Number Six: Stan the Man
Number Seven (tonight):

SO who else HAS to get in there? Albert... Jim Edmonds...Chris Carpenter...and WHO?? August Busch III? Mayer Frances Slay? Governor Blunt? Mabry turned one over and he's a bench player. HMMMMmmmm

To commemorate the final season at Busch Stadium, each game, an individual tied to the history of the stadium will pull down a number from the Busch Stadium Final Season Countdown Clock. Below is information presented at the game about each person that has pulled down a number so far this season.
September 11th, 2005 - #9
A dominant athlete in over the last ten years, she has been unmatched in her versatility. She owns three number one rankings in the long jump, six in the heptathlon. Add to that three Olympic golds, a silver and two bronzes, and another four gold medals in the outdoor world championships. The title of "World's Greatest Athlete," so often reserved for gold medalists in the decathlon, can be justly given to this athlete. Here today to change our countdown from #9 to #8, please welcome St. Louis Native and world renowned Olympian, Jackie Joyner Kersee.
September 10th, 2005 - #10
At the age of 34, this manager took over the White Sox team in 1979. From 1986 to 1995, he was at the helm of the A's before starting his career in St. Louis. Since coming to St. Louis, he has led the Cardinals to Central Division Championships and 1 National League Championship. In addition, he is the 3rd all time winningest coach in Major League Baseball. Here today to change our countdown from #10 to #9, please welcome, your St. Louis Cardinals skipper, Tony LaRussa.
September 9th, 2005 - #11
With the Cardinals, this player became a reliable, switch-hitting .270-.280 singles hitter and batted .385 as a pinch hitter in 1987. Mid season in 1988 he took over the regular second-base job, but he did pitch in relief once, earning the first decision in the majors by a non-pitcher in twenty years. He also caught a game, earning him the title as the first National League player to play all nine positions in a season. Here today to change our countdown from #11 to #10, please welcome, "The Secret Weapon" and current 3rd base coach, #11, Jose Oquendo.
September 8th, 2005 - #12
He was the unlikely hero of Game Four of the 1987 World Series. With the Twins and Cardinals tied 1-1 in the fourth inning, he hit a three-run homer off Frank Viola as the Cardinals went on to win 7-2. He played a career 328 games, seven of which were play off games. Here today to change our countdown from #12 to #11, former Cardinals baseball player, Tom Lawless.
September 7th, 2005 - #13
He is arguably the finest offensive line coach in the history of professional football. Beginning his career with the NFL in 1973, he was hired as the offensive line coach for the St. Louis Cardinals and named NFL Assistant Coach of the Year in 1977. He was the Cardinals' head coach from 1980-85, and posted winning seasons from 1982-84. After returning from a 6 year stint with the Redskins, he returned to St. Louis for the third time 97 to head up the Rams' offensive line and assisted the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 1999. Here today to change our countdown from #13 to #12, former Cardinals football coach, Jim Hanifan.
September 6th, 2005 - #14
This former Hall-of-Fame and Cardinals broadcaster was widely admired by his colleagues in the world of broadcasting and by the players whose feats he broadcast for fans around the world. Although he broadcast nearly every professional sport at one time or another, he was most well known as the Voice of the Cardinals for 47 years. Passing away on June 18th, 2002, Cardinals Nation felt the loss of not only a broadcaster, but one of St. Louis's greatest citizens who always touched people with his generous spirit and time for others. Here today to change our countdown from #14 to #13, please welcome, in honor of their father, the Jack Buck family, Carol, Joe & Julie Buck.
September 5th, 2005 - #15
In 2004, this Cardinals outfielder had an MVP-type year, batting .301 and tying his career high 42 home runs. Additionally, he set a career high with 111 RBI's. He earned his first-ever Silver Slugger Award and was named to the Sporting News NL All-Star team. This season, he is again one of the team leaders in hits, home runs and RBI's. Here today to change our countdown from #15 to #14, please welcome your Cardinals #15, Jim Edmonds.
August 21st, 2005 - #16
With 1,397 games in his career, this former Redbird outfielder began his career at Busch Stadium in 1990. He had a batting average of .276 during his 14 year career and he still holds the record for the most home runs hit by a Cardinals player with 207. Here today to change our countdown from #16 to #15, please welcome back #16, Ray Lankford.
August 20th, 2005 - #17
Signed by the St. Louis Cardinals football team in 1966, he became the team's starting quarterback the following season. He was named the NFL player of the year after the 1974 season for guiding the Cardinals to the Eastern Division championship, with a completion of 200 out of 288 passes for 2,411 yards and 20 touchdowns that year. Here today to change our countdown from #17 to #16, please welcome back former football Cardinal #17, Jim Hart.
August 19th, 2005 - #18
A St. Louis native, this former Redbird was a regular right fielder in the 1964 World Championship season. He hit a game-tying two-run homer off Whitey Ford in the 1964 Series opener, which St. Louis won 9-5. He was known for being the last Cardinal player to hit a home run in Sportsman's Park and the first to hit one in Busch Stadium. He continues his career in baseball even today as a broadcaster for your Redbirds. Here today to change our countdown from #18 to #17, please welcome former #18, and current voice of the Cardinals, Mike Shannon.
August 18th, 2005 - #19
Primarily a catcher, this former Cardinal also made 40 appearances at first base, and seven appearances at third base during this 12 season career spanning 1987-1998. Considered an RBI threat, he was highly regarded for his defense, for which he won gold gloves in 1991, 1992 and 1994. He was also a member of the National League All-Star team in 1992.Here today to change our countdown from #19 to #18, please welcome back, Tom Pagnozzi.
August 17th, 2005 - #20
This former Redbird came to St. Louis in a six-man trade on June 15, 1964. His greatest season was probably 1967, when he led the Cardinals to another World Championship with a league-leading 113 runs scored, 52 steals, and career highs of 21 homers, 76 RBI, and a .472 slugging average. In 1985, his first year of eligibility, he was elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Here today to change our countdown from #20 to #19, please welcome back, Hall of Famer, and #20, Lou Brock.
August 16th, 2005 - #21
Called up to St. Louis in 1985, this pitcher won three in relief, saved five, and tied a World Series record by fanning six straight Royals in Game Five. In 1986 he was a near unanimous choice for NL Rookie of the Year as he set a league record for 36 saves by a rookie. In 1988 he became the only pitcher in history to record 30 saves in each of his first three full seasons and the only Cardinal to have three 30-save seasons. Here today to change our countdown from #21 to #20, please welcome back, Todd Worrell.
August 7th, 2005 - #22
These two former Cardinals players were found on the field of Busch Stadium, one as a football player, and one as a baseball player. Our first wore the Cardinals baseball uniform and came to St. Louis prior to the 1985 season and in '87 lead the NL in walks, with 136, while hitting 35 home runs, 106 RBI's and 93 runs scored. The second led the nation in punt returns in 1968 at Mizzou, setting a school record with seven pass interceptions. He was a perennial all-pro performer while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals football team from 1969-1982. Here today to change our countdown from #22 to #21, please welcome back, Jack Clark and Roger Wehrli.
August 6th, 2005 - #23
This former Negro League player became the first African American coach ever hired by a major league team when he was signed by the Cubs in 1962. Prior to that, he led the Negro League with a .353 batting average in 1946 as a clutch hitter and a top first baseman. Joining him, is a former Cardinals third baseman who was a three time Gold Glove winner. In 1986, he ranked second on the team in homers, third in RBI's and third in stolen bases. Here today to change our countdown from #23 to #22, please welcome, Buck O'Neal and Terry Pendleton.
August 5th, 2005 - #24
This former manager earned respect in baseball for his superb managerial skills while leading the Cardinals to six division wins, three pennant wins and one World Championship. He was named Manager of the Year in 1976 by UPI, and in 1982 by TSN and UPI. Additionally, he was also voted Manager of the Year by the BBWAA in 1985. Here today to change our countdown from #24 to #23, please welcome The White Rat, #24, Whitey Herzog.
August 4th, 2005 - #25
This Hall of Famer played 23 Major League seasons, five of which took him to World Series appearances. He was a seven-time All Star and MVP of the 1967 game at Anaheim when he hit a 15th inning homer to win the game. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2000 and is still a part of baseball as the Special Assistant to the president for the Marlins. Here today to change our countdown from #25 to #24, please welcome Hall of Famer, Tony Perez.
August 3rd, 2005 - #26
With 928 career Major League victories at the end of the 2004 season, this manager is sixth among active skippers and 55th all time. He was named the National League's manager of the Year by the Baseball Writers Association of America in 2003, making him the first manager of the Marlins to be awarded the honor. With over 50 seasons in baseball, here today to change our countdown from #26 to #25, please welcome one of baseballs favorites, Jack McKeon.
August 2nd, 2005 - #27
2004 marked this third basemen's eighth straight season reaching 20-HR's and fifth 100-RBI season. He was named a finalist for the Hank Aaron Award in the same year and was the top vote-getter in N.L. All-Star balloting making him the first third baseman since Joe Torre to be voted to back to back appearances. He's second only to Mark McGwire as the fastest Cardinal to reach 75 RBI's and his two-run home run in the sixth inning off Roger Clemens plated the pennant-clinching run in Game 7 of the 2004 LCS. Here today to change our countdown from #27 to #26, please welcome one of the best third basemen in the game, Cardinals #27, Scott Rolen.
August 1st, 2005 - #28
Before the sounds of the organ during Cardinals baseball games, Cardinals fans could find a band of four musicians walking throughout the stands entertaining the fans at Sportsman's Park. After moving into Busch Stadium, this group continued to perform until 1968 where they were easily recognized by their barbershop striped shirts. Here today to change our countdown from #28 to #27, please welcome former Cardinals band leader, an accordion player, Dick Renna.
July 24th, 2005 - #29
After shattering the rookie record for stolen bases in a season in 1985, this outfielder went on to lead the league in thefts six straight seasons. As the National League Rookie of the year in the same year, he finished the season with 107 runs scored and 170 hits. He was the first player in history to steal 100 bases in each of his first three seasons. Here today to change our countdown from #29 to #28, please welcome former Cardinals player, #29, Vince Coleman.
July 23th, 2005 - #30
This former Cardinals player appeared in eight games with the Cardinals in 1959 at the age of 17, beginning his four-decade career in the Majors. He was the starting catcher for the first game played in Busch Stadium in 1966, and his 13 triples in that same year made him the only catcher to lead a league in that category. He's still involved in the game as a broadcaster for the Mets and for Fox. Here today to change our countdown from #30 to #29, please welcome former Cardinals catcher, #30, Tim McCarver.
July 22th, 2005 - #31
This former Redbird is the only pitcher to throw two no hitters in his career. Converted from a third baseman, he ranks third only to Hall of Famers Bob Gibson and Jesse Haines who both pitched more years and won more games for the Cardinals. Here tonight to change our countdown from #31 to #30, please welcome former Cardinals pitcher, #31, Bob Forsch.
July 21st, 2005 - #32
This Cardinals executive has been a part of the organization for 11 years. His tenure at the helm of the Redbirds has been marked by record attendance, the club's 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 Central Division Championship, the 2004 National League Championship, and most recently, the work he's done in bringing a new stadium to St. Louis and the Cardinals. Here tonight to change our countdown from #32 to #31, please welcome your president of the St. Louis Cardinals, Mark Lamping.
July 20th, 2005 - #33
This former Colorado Rockie burst onto the Redbird scene in a trade last August. Since then, Cardinals nation has cheered him on as he's become a popular and successful addition to the line up known as Murderer's Row. He's a former MVP, batting champ and 4 time All Star. With 52 runs and 40 RBI's this season, here tonight to change our countdown from #33 to #32, please welcome your current #33 for the St. Louis Cardinals, Larry Walker.
July 19th, 2005 - #34
This former pitcher was a key ingredient in the Cardinals' 1985 pennant as he went 18-9 in just his second full season. He made it back to the Fall Classic with St. Louis in 1987, where he picked up a win. He pitched 29 combined innings in his World Series appearances with a career ERA of 3.64. Here tonight to change our countdown from #34 to #33, please welcome back former Cardinals pitcher, number 34, Danny Cox.
July 18th, 2005 - #35
This former Cardinals Football running back could be seen on the field of Busch Stadium from 1973 through 1978. He led the Cardinals to top of the NFC East as in 1975 with teammates Terry Metcalf and Dan Dierdorf. He is on the 2005 ballot for the College Football Hall of Fame for his success and leadership while at Ohio State. Here tonight to change our countdown from #35 to #34, please welcome back former Cardinals Football player, #35, Jim Otis.
July 17th, 2005 - #36
This former Redbird was indisputably the best-fielding first baseman of his time, winning eleven straight Gold Gloves. He led the NL in batting in 1979 with the Cardinals, winning the only shared MVP award in history that year. His on-base percentage was above .400 seven times during his career, and he led the league in 1979 and 1980. Here tonight to change our countdown from #36 to #35, please welcome back Keith Hernandez.
July 16th, 2005 - #37
These two formers pitchers both found success with the Cardinals while wearing #37 during two separate decades at Busch Stadium. The first, Scott Terry, reeled off seven straight victories in 1988 and achieved an unusual distinction in 89 by hitting two home runs to centerfield, both traveling more than 400 feet, the longest hit at Busch Stadium that season. The second, Kent Bottenfield, won 18 games in only 6 months in 1999 which won him an appearance in the All Star Game that season. Here today to change our countdown from #37 to #36, please welcome back former pitchers #37, Scott Terry & #37 Kent Bottenfield.
July 15th, 2005 - #38
He began his Major League career in 1928, pitching for the St. Louis Browns during the Great Depression years of 1930, 31 and 33. Having once pitched against such greats as Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Rogers Hornsby, he is, today the second oldest Major League Baseball player alive at the age of 98. Unfortunately, Rolland Stiles was admitted to the hospital yesterday and is unable to attend tonight's game to change our countdown clock. In his place, we'd like to welcome his grandson, John Stiles who has told us that Rolland is watching tonight's game and this ceremony, from his hospital room. To change our countdown from #52 to #51, in honor of former St. Louis Browns pitcher Rolland Stiles, is his grandson, John Stiles.
July 3rd, 2005 - #39
His blazing fastball, used 90 percent of the time, made this former Cards pitcher one of the most effective relievers of the 1970s. The Fu Manchu mustache and long hair, together with the angry stomping to the back of the mound to psych himself up, earned him the nickname of The Mad Hungarian. Here tonight to change our countdown from #39 to #38, please welcome former Cardinals pitcher, #39, the Mad Hungarian, Al Hrabosky.
July 2nd, 2005 - #40
Since the early 1930's this cartoonist and illustrator has depicted sports through works of art. In addition, he was the artist who drew the St. Louis Post Dispatch Weatherbird for 50 years and who's cartoons of baseball greats adorned boxes of Kelloggs Raisin Bran. His collections can be found in sports cities throughout the nation. Here tonight to change our countdown from #40 to #39, please welcome, the artist, simply known as Amadee.
July 1st, 2005 - #41
He's been a staple of Busch for 34 years, and is best known for his talent of getting the crowd involved and excited between every inning here at Busch Stadium. This life long Cardinals fan was the only source of music played during the first 10 years of Busch Stadium and has since been a part of the Redbirds. He is easily known as the most entertaining organist in baseball, Here tonight to change our countdown from #41 to #40, please welcome, St. Louis Cardinals organist, Ernie Hays.
June 30th, 2005 - #42
Arm surgery in 1973 nearly ended this pitchers career, but with the help of his Cubs pitching coach Mike Roarke, He saved 31 games while recording a microscopic 1.35 ERA in his sophomore season. He continued his dominance from the bullpen with the Cardinals, peaking with 45 saves in 1984. The Cardinals even hired his former coach, Mike Roarke to monitor his pitching mechanics. Holding the NL record for career saves, here tonight to change our countdown from #42 to #41, please welcome former Cardinals #42, Bruce Sutter.
June 29th, 2005 - #43
Cardinals fans could see this 37-year veteran broadcaster in 1992 when he was with the Redbirds. Since then, he has been the play-by-play broadcaster seen with the Cincinnati Reds. He and partner Chris Welsh are working together for the 13th consecutive season and are the longest running TV duo in Cincinnati Reds history. In addition to this accomplishment, he anchored the first ever ESPN SportsCenter telecast in 1979. Here tonight to change our countdown from #43 to #42, please welcome former Cardinals broadcaster, George Grande.
June 28th, 2005 - #44
This former Redbird was known as "The Zamboni Machine" in St. Louis for the way he sucked ground balls off the carpet. In both of his first two seasons, he led NL third basemen in fielding percentage, but captured his Gold Glove in 1975. He was with the Cardinals from 1972 to 1980, except for 1976, which he spent in San Francisco. A consistent yet unspectacular hitter, in 1977 he smashed 17 homers, by far his greatest show of power. Here tonight to change our countdown from #44 to #43, please welcome Ken Reitz.
June 26th, 2005 - #45
There have been few pitchers more intimidating or more dominating than this former Redbird. His 1968 season is one of the very best ever turned in by a pitcher, and his stellar World Series performances brought him a Hall of Fame election in 1981. In 1968 he pitched 13 shutouts on his way to a 1.12 ERA, the second-lowest since 1893 in 300 innings. Here tonight to change our countdown from #45 to #44, please welcome back nine time Gold Glove winner and former Cardinal, Bob Gibson.
June 25th, 2005 - #46
This former Cardinals utility man pinch ran three times in the 1964 World Series, scoring a run in Game One as St. Louis's three-run ninth inning put the game out of the Yankees' reach. He also singled in his only WS at-bat. When Julian Javier was out with a broken finger in 1965, he filled in and hit a career-high .247. Here tonight to change our countdown from #46 to #45, please welcome back to Busch Stadium, former Redbird, Jerry Buchek.
June 24th, 2005 - #47
Drafted by the Cardinals in the 6th round of the 1991 amateur draft, this player has spent seven of his 11 major league seasons in a Redbirds uniform. He's been seen playing the positions of 3rd base and left field and is best known as a fan favorite who always seems to come through for the team when in a bind. Being one of only 15 Cardinals in history to have hit for the cycle, changing our countdown from #47 to #46, please welcome current Cardinals player, #47, John Mabry.
June 23rd, 2005 - #48
This Cardinals fan is the current driver of the Budweiser Lucas Oil Top Fuel Dragster and will be racing this Friday through Sunday at the Sears Craftsman Nationals at Gateway International Raceway. He began his professional career behind the wheel of a top fuel dragster in 2003 earning the Rookie of the Year Award and has the most successful career launch of any other top fuel of funny car driver, winning 5 of the first 13 events in which he competed. Here tonight to change our countdown from #48 to #47, please welcome NHRA racecar driver Brandon Bernstein.
June 12th, 2005 - #49
In four years with the Cardinals, he was successful in long and short relief and starting. The soft thrower was best at working the corners and holding runners, and his speed made him valuable as a pinch runner. Currently, he is the baseball analyst for Fox Sports Midwest and is the co-host for the Cardinals post-game show on WB, Channel 11. Here today to change our countdown from #49 to #48, please welcome Rick Horton.
June 11th, 2005 - #50
This young prospect from Brooklyn came up to the big leagues with Atlanta at the end of the 1960 season and hit a pinch single in his first at-bat. His successes as a player include the title of NL Rookie of the Year, five time All-Star and Gold Glove recipient. In 1990 he returned to the field as manager of the Cardinals until 1995 where he returned to his home in New York to become the manager of the Yankees and leading them to four World Championships in five years. Here today to change our countdown from #50 to #49, please welcome Yankees manager, Joe Torre.
June 10th, 2005 - #51
He was the 1969 NL Rookie of the Year, batting .271 in 159 games for the Dodgers and tying a Major League season record with three bases-loaded triples. Following his debut with the Dodgers, this player wore the Cardinals uniform in a trade for Richie Allen following the 1970 season, and is credited by Lou Brock with helping him break the Major League stolen-base record in 1974. Here tonight to change our countdown from #51 to #50, please welcome Ted Sizemore.
June 8th, 2005 - #52
As we've seen throughout tonight's rain delay, we've been in touch with several of our military fans in Tikrit, Iraq. Tonight we'd like to honor our St. Louis Cardinals Military Liaison Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Todd Robbins, United States Army. Lieutenant Colonel Robbins is based out of Scott Air Force Base. He's assigned to the United States transportation command responsible for all global transportation requirements supporting the department of defense. Here tonight to change our clock from #52 to #51, please welcome Lieutenant Colonel Todd Robbins.
June 7th, 2005 - #53
Wearing a Cardinals uniform from 1983-1986, this outfielder compiled a .987 career fielding average in his 13 years as a Major League player. He was a three time All Star and received a Gold Glove five times. In addition to these successes, he posted double figures in doubles, triples, home runs and stolen bases three times in his career. In 1992, he became the first outfielder in nearly 18 years to record an unassisted double play. Here today to change our countdown clock from #53 to #52, please welcome Andy Van Slyke.
June 6th, 2005 - #54
In his first stint ever behind the wheel of a race car in 1982, this well known race car driver was following in the footsteps of a family tradition. He won the Street Stock State Championship in Illinois that year and after turning wrenches on older brother Rusty's race cars for a few years, he returned to driving and has been making history ever since, as one of the best in the NASCAR Busch Series Competition. Known for his red car decorated with the St. Louis Cardinals logo, here today to change our countdown clock from #54 to #53, please welcome Kenny Wallace.
May 29th, 2005 - #55
This former Redbird played for nine teams in 18 major-league seasons. In 1968 while playing for the Cleveland Indians, he led the team twice in steals and tied a big-league record for outfielders by making two unassisted double plays. Traded to the Cardinals in 1970, he hit .293 with 74 RBIs and in a 1971 season split between St. Louis and Milwaukee, he drove in a career-high 80 RBIs. Upon retiring after the 1980 World Series, where he started two games in right field, he became a major-league coach with the Reds, Cardinals, Yankees and Devil Rays. Here today to change our countdown clock from #55 to #54, please welcome Jose Cardenal.
May 28th, 2005 - #56
He won the triple crown, the MVP in both leagues, and he finished in the top ten in MVP voting, ten times. As one of baseball's great "gamers" he was Rookie of the Year in 1956 and he developed a reputation as an aggressive outfielder and hard-charging baserunner. Winning the American League Triple Crown in 1966, he amassed 586 home runs and ended his career just 57 hits shy of the 3,000-hit club. Along with these many successes as a baseball player, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1982 and is still a part of the baseball world today. Here today to change our countdown clock from #56 to #55, please welcome Mr. Frank Robinson.
May 27th, 2005 - #57
He began his career in the Houston organization as a 30th round pick in the June 1987 draft, and broke into the Major Leagues in 1991. He threw a no-hitter in 1993 with Houston and was 15-8 that year. Darryl Kile joined the St. Louis Cardinals in November 1999 in a seven-player trade with the Rockies. The right-hander had seven winning seasons, including a 20-9 season in 2000, which was his first as a Redbird. On June 22, 2002, Darryl Kile's career ended much too soon when he passed away in his Chicago hotel room at the age of 33. Cardinals nation mourned the loss of a man who had become not only an outstanding addition to the Cardinals starting rotation, but a friend and mentor to several of his teammates. Although his career ended tragically, he will always be fondly remembered and celebrated for his contributions to the game of baseball, his leadership and his love for his family. Here today to represent Darryl Kile is his wife, Flynn, their son Kannon, and daughter Sierra, to change our countdown clock from #57 to #56.
May 25th, 2005 - #58
He was appointed the Cardinals' senior medical advisor in October 1997. He was the Cardinals' head physician for 29 seasons, beginning in 1968. A native of Springfield, IL, received his M.D. degree from Washington University in 1949. As a student, he excelled in baseball and is widely regarded as Washington University's greatest basketball player ever. While studying for his doctorate, he coached the university's baseball team and was assistant basketball coach. He is a fellow for both the American Board of Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons, an assistant professor of surgery at Washington Medical, and a partner in Parkerest Surgical Associates. He was the team physician for the St. Louis Hawks during the club's 11 seasons in the National Basketball Association. He has tended to Cardinal baseball players' medical needs since 1956. Here tonight to change our countdown clock from #58 to #57, please welcome Dr. Stan London.
May 24th, 2005 - #59
Fans can still see this former big leaguer around Busch Stadium and at local schools for the Say No To Drugs program that he started several years ago. He broke into the Major Leagues in 1954 as a Cardinals player, with three home runs in his first two games and has continued his career in baseball for over 50 years, 37 of which have been with the Cardinals organization. He was by the side of Whitey Herzog in 1982 during the Redbirds run through the playoffs and World Series, as an honorary coach and contributed to the Cardinals organization by creating the group sales programs and the party rooms here at Busch Stadium. As an All-Star in 1959, his .354 batting average was second in the NL to Batting Champion Hank Aaron who had a .355. Here tonight to change our countdown clock from #59 to #58, please welcome Joe Cunningham.
May 23rd, 2005 - #60
This Cardinals fan has been a part of St. Louis and Busch Stadium for several years as he would be on duty working for the St. Louis Police Department. Last season, he lost both legs because of an accident suffered while working outside Busch Stadium during the 2004 playoffs. He since has undergone extensive rehabilitation and was seen earlier tonight walking out to the mound to throw out an honorary first pitch for tonight's game. His positive attitude throughout his recovery has been an inspiration to others who have been through similar ordeals. Cardinals fans, here tonight to change our countdown clock from #60 to #59, please welcome St. Louis Police Officer Matt Browning.
May 12th, 2005 - #61
As president of the Cardinals between 1953 and 1989, his success was marked on and off the field. The team won three World Championships and three additional National League pennants while forging the reputation of having the classiest organization in Major League Baseball. After winning the 1964 World Series over the New York Yankees, he was instrumental in the building of "new" Busch Stadium that opened May 12, 1966, with a 4-3 victory over the Atlanta Braves in 12 innings. Throughout his ownership of the Cardinals, this man, nicknamed "Gussie" was one of the City of St. Louis' most popular citizens. He was a regular at home games, and on special occasions would ride around the stadium atop a Budweiser wagon pulled by a team of signature Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales. In 1984, the Cardinals retired the number 85 in his honor in conjunction with his 85th birthday. Here today to change the countdown clock from #61 to #60 and to represent August A. Busch, Jr., and his many contributions to Busch Stadium, are his sons, Billy & Adolphus Busch, joined by one of the world famous Clydesdale horses.
May 11th, 2005 - #62
On September 8, 1998, history was no longer chased, it was made. Former St. Louis Cardinal Mark McGwire drove the first pitch from Steve Trachsel over the left field wall for his 62nd home run of the year, breaking Roger Maris' 37 year-old record. The #62 ball, which had a standing offer of $1 million for it, fell just short of the stands, and made it into the hands of a member of the grounds crew. That lucky worker, and long time fan, returned the ball back to Mark McGwire at the postgame celebration and started a trend that inspired fans to return home run balls that have significance in the baseball world, to those players who wowed the crowd with their accomplishment. Here today to change the countdown clock from #62 to #61, please welcome the first person to hold Mark McGwires #62 record breaking home run before returning to him, Tim Forneris.
May 10th, 2005 - #63
Throughout his professional baseball career he served two stints as Vice President and General Manager of the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals, once from 1958 to 1964 and again from 1968 to 1978. During this time, not only did he lead the Cardinals as a World Championship team in the 60's, but became famous for making one of the best trades in history, obtaining Lou Brock, who later became a Hall of Famer. In 1963 and 1964, he was named Executive of the Year by the Sporting News, and he is still a part of the Cardinals organization today, working as a special assignment scout. Here today to change the countdown clock from #63 to #62, please welcome back a Cardinals icon, Mr. Bing Devine.
May 9th, 2005 - #64
This dominant All-Star third baseman was an outstanding fielder and was consistently productive as a clutch hitter. Signed as a pitcher by the Cardinals, his poor pitching and strong hitting prompted his move to third base where he played brilliantly for most of his 11 years in St. Louis. He won five Gold Gloves and led third basemen in double plays, a record-tying five times. In eight different seasons, he hit over 20 homers. His 255 home runs as a Cardinal put him second only to Stan Musial and in his career, he twice hit for the cycle, once in 1961, and again in 1964. His 1964 MVP season was peaked by his performance in the World Series. In Game Four, he stroked a grand slam to give the Cardinals a 4-3 win, and his seventh-inning shot in Game Seven he catapulted the Cardinals to a 7-5 win and the world championship. In 1984, his #14 was retired as a Cardinals player. Here today to change the countdown clock from #64 to #63, please welcome the family of former Cardinals player Ken Boyer. Representing Ken today are his children, Dan & David Boyer, Susie Hartwig & Janie Stubbs.
May 8th, 2005 - #65
Since 1979, we've seen this member of the Cardinals family running around Busch Stadium during every game played. He's been honored numerous times for his contributions to the community and to the organization, however the true honor and recognition should go to the one who made him the success that he is today. She raised him to love the game of baseball and continuously dealt with his crazy antics, knowing someday that his dream of representing the best baseball town in America would come true. Please welcome back to change the countdown clock from #65 to #64, the one who made Fredbird such a great part of Cardinals nation, Fredbirds Mom, Mrs. Fredbird.
May 7th, 2005 - #66
From the years of 1955 through 1968, St. Louis had the chance to be a part of a sport that many would love to have back. At that time, you could find the NBA St. Louis Skyhawks playing basketball at Kiel Auditorium and on that team you could find a now Hall of Famer who led the team to a National Championship in 1958. This 6 foot 9 inch forward received the honors of All-Star MVP four times, along with the title of NBA MVP twice during his career. In addition, he was the first NBA player in history to score 20,000 points and in 1996 was named one of the 50 greatest NBA players. Here today to change the countdown clock from #66 to #65, please welcome back to St. Louis, NBA Hall of Famer Bob Pettit.
May 6th, 2005 - #67
This former Cardinals player was a durable, consistent starting pitcher on Cardinals roster. He relied on a hard fastball and a shaky slider to post 10 seasons of double-digit win totals, including a career best 18-10 for the 1996 NL Central champion Redbirds. He had a career 2,301 innings pitched with 143 wins and 128 losses. Even now, his role in the St. Louis community is immense and his care and compassion for children is well known throughout the area which is why he is still known in the Cardinals baseball world with his work as the host of the Cardinals Kids Crew Television Show. To change today's countdown clock from #67 to #66, please welcome back, former Cardinals pitcher and one of St. Louis fans favorites, Andy Benes.
May 5th, 2005 - #68
Since 2002, this Cardinals player has brought Redbird fans to their feet in cheers during the 9th inning of most games. He has a career 177 saves since becoming a player in the major leagues 9 years ago. In a Cardinals uniform, he has 108 saves with 7 of taking place since the start of the 2005 season. His fastball, with excellent late movement, routinely is clocked in the 94-96 MPH range and last season he set career highs in saves, opportunities and games pitched on the way to tying for the NL saves lead. In addition, he tied the Cardinals' club saves record set by Lee Smith in 1991, with 47. Here tonight to change the countdown clock from #68 to #67, please welcome your Cardinals closing pitcher, Jason Isringhausen.
April 28th, 2005 - #69
Today the Cardinals are pleased to welcome a special guest. Representing all those military heroes is a St. Louisan, a graduate and freshman baseball player from DeSmet High School, and an Eagle Scout. He is a member of India Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment and as you can see from the video board, he was pictured on the cover and in a story in Time Magazine in November, during the major battle in Fallujah. Here to turn our countdown clock from #69 to #68, please welcome home, Marine Corporal Eric Shelvy.
April 26th, 2005 - #70
In the mid 80's, a group of players was termed the "bullpen by committee" by then manager Whitey Herzog. One of the members of the "committee" became a very important addition to the team as they went to the World Series in both 1985 and 1987. With a career 3.64 ERA and 573 innings pitched, please welcome back to turn the countdown clock from #70 to #69, Ken Dayley.
April 25th, 2005 - #71
Throughout Busch Stadium's history, one broadcaster has been in the press box several times when the Milwaukee Brewers would come to town. This broadcaster and former player is celebrating his 50th anniversary as a part of Major League Baseball and 35th as a broadcaster. He was a member of the 1964 St. Louis Cardinals World Championship Team as a catcher, and he's here today to change the countdown clock from #71 to #70. Please welcome back, Mr. Baseball, Bob Uecker.
April 24th, 2005 - #72
This member of the Cardinals organization was named the General Manager in 1994. The appearance in the 2004 World Series by the Cardinals are a direct reflection of the hard work and contributions that he's made during the off season and also while the season is in play. Named Executive of the Year in 2004, and the longest tenured general manager in club history, here to turn the countdown clock from #72 to #71, please welcome Walt Jocketty.
April 23rd, 2005 - #73
Saint Louis University's soccer program is the most winning program in NCAA history, that success is contributed directly to one of the best, and most well known coaches in the game. He lead the Billikens to five NCAA National Championship titles in his coaching career there and coached them several times during the bronze boot games that took place here at busch stadium. Additionally, he played on the 1950 world cup team that defeated england, and is still being recognized today with the recent release of the movie "the game of their lives". To turn the countdown clock from #73 to #72 please welcome the legendary soccer star, Harry Keough.
April 22nd, 2005 - #74
From 1996 to 1998, the Cardinals were proud to have one of the finest third baseman in the major leagues. He has made his mark as a 20 year veteran of Major League Baseball and ranks 6th all time among third basemen, with 360 career home runs. Now continuing his career in the major leagues as the hitting coach for the Astros, please welcome back former Cardinals player and Centralia, Illinois native, Gary Gaetti to change today's countdown clock from #74 to #73.
April 21st, 2005 - #75
Through the years the Cardinals have seen many people come in and out of the broadcast booths at busch stadium. In 1975, a local St. Louisan became the voice of the cardinals for television broadcasts and has continued his broadcasting career even through today as one of the most knowledgable golf experts around. To change the countdown clock from #75 to #74, please welcome 1975 Cardinals television broadcaster and well known golf expert, Jay Randolph, Jr.
April 20th, 2005 - #76
In 1976, there were several Cardinals baseball players who stood out on the team, but only one who could claim most of the top rankings in statistics. As one of the best that year, he led the team in at-bats, hits, doubles and rbi's. He proudly wore a Cardinals uniform and is here tonight to change the countdown clock from #76 to #75, please welcome, from the 1976 Cardinals baseball team, Mr. Ted Simmons.
April 13th, 2005 - #77
Cardinals fans are well known for recognizing great accomplishments made by any player, whether a member of their own team, or another team. Last season, one of baseballs most well known names hit his 500th home run here at busch stadium in front of a crowd that gave him a standing ovation for several minutes. Here to change the Busch Stadium countdown clock from #77 to #76, please welcome Cincinnati Reds player, Ken Griffey, Jr.
April 12th, 2005 - #78
With us today on the field, to turn the countdown clock from #78 to #77, is a long time Cardinals fan, and someone who knows the game inside and out. He began his career as a full time beat writer for the Cardinals in 1978 and continues to do so for the St. Louis post dispatch today. Cardinals fans, please welcome Mr. Rick Hummel to change the game number for us tonight.
April 10th, 2005 - #79
This #1 Cardinals fan can be seen running around busch stadium at every home game, getting the crowd pumped up and playing practical jokes on everyone. He was hatched during the 1979 season and has since been one of the most entertaining parts of any cardinals game. Here tonight to change the countdown clock from #79 to #78, please welcome Fredbird.
April 9th, 2005 - #80
The first two games that the St. Louis Rams played in their innaugural year of 1995, took place here at Busch Stadium during the completion of the dome. Only two of the current rams players were here to play those first two games at a sold out Busch Stadium. With us today is one of those players who took to the football field of Busch Stadium. To count down today's game from number 80 to 79, please welcome one of the best receivers in the NFL, and three time pro-bowler, Rams number 80, Isaac Bruce.
April 8th, 2005 - #81
Counting down today's game from number 81 to 80, is one of the greatest football players to ever wear a Cardinals football uniform. Please welcome NFL Great, and Hall of Famer, number 81, Jackie Smith.

A few truths, for those who have ears and eyes and care to know the truth:
1.) The hurricane that hit New Orleans and Mississippi and Alabama was an astonishing tragedy. The suffering and loss of life and peace of mind of the residents of those areas is acutely horrifying.
2.) George Bush did not cause the hurricane. Hurricanes have been happening for eons. George Bush did not create them or unleash this one.
3.) George Bush did not make this one worse than others. There have been far worse hurricanes than this before George Bush was born.
4.) There is no overwhelming evidence that global warming exists as a man-made phenomenon. There is no clear-cut evidence that global warming even exists. There is no clear evidence that if it does exist it makes hurricanes more powerful or makes them aim at cities with large numbers of poor people. If global warming is a real phenomenon, which it may well be, it started long before George Bush was inaugurated, and would not have been affected at all by the Kyoto treaty, considering that Kyoto does not cover the world's worst polluters -- China, India, and Brazil. In a word, George Bush had zero to do with causing this hurricane. To speculate otherwise is belief in sorcery.
5.) George Bush had nothing to do with the hurricane contingency plans for New Orleans. Those are drawn up by New Orleans and Louisiana. In any event, the plans were perfectly good: mandatory evacuation. It is in no way at all George Bush's fault that about 20 percent of New Orleans neglected to follow the plan. It is not his fault that many persons in New Orleans were too confused to realize how dangerous the hurricane would be. They were certainly warned. It's not George Bush's fault that there were sick people and old people and people without cars in New Orleans. His job description does not include making sure every adult in America has a car, is in good health, has good sense, and is mobile.
6.) George Bush did not cause gangsters to shoot at rescue helicopters taking people from rooftops, did not make gang bangers rape young girls in the Superdome, did not make looters steal hundreds of weapons, in short make New Orleans into a living hell.
7.) George Bush is the least racist President in mind and soul there has ever been and this is shown in his appointments over and over. To say otherwise is scandalously untrue.
8.) George Bush is rushing every bit of help he can to New Orleans and Mississippi and Alabama as soon as he can. He is not a magician. It takes time to organize huge convoys of food and now they are starting to arrive. That they get in at all considering the lawlessness of the city is a miracle of bravery and organization.
9.) There is not the slightest evidence at all that the war in Iraq has diminished the response of the government to the emergency. To say otherwise is pure slander.
10.) If the energy the news media puts into blaming Bush for an Act of God worsened by stupendous incompetence by the New Orleans city authorities and the malevolence of the criminals of the city were directed to helping the morale of the nation, we would all be a lot better off.
11.) New Orleans is a great city with many great people. It will recover and be greater than ever. Sticking pins into an effigy of George Bush that does not resemble him in the slightest will not speed the process by one day.
12.) The entire episode is a dramatic lesson in the breathtaking callousness of government officials at the ground level. Imagine if Hillary Clinton had gotten her way and they were in charge of your health care.God bless all of those dear people who are suffering so much, and God bless those helping them, starting with George Bush.
****UPDATE: Sunday, Sept. 4, 2005, 2:13 p.m.:More Mysteries of Katrina:Why is it that the snipers who shot at emergency rescuers trying to save people in hospitals and shelters are never mentioned except in passing, and Mr. Bush, who is turning over heaven and earth to rescue the victims of the storm, is endlessly vilified?
What church does Rev. Al Sharpton belong to that believes in passing blame and singling out people by race for opprobrium and hate?
What special abilities does the media have for deciding how much blame goes to the federal government as opposed to the city government of New Orleans for the aftereffects of Katrina?
If able-bodied people refuse to obey a mandatory evacuation order for a city, have they not assumed the risk that ill effects will happen to them?
When the city government simply ignores its own sick and hospitalized and elderly people in its evacuation order, is Mr. Bush to blame for that?
Is there any problem in the world that is not Mr. Bush's fault, or have we reverted to a belief in a sort of witchcraft where we credit a mortal man with the ability to create terrifying storms and every other kind of ill wind?
Where did the idea come from that salvation comes from hatred and criticism and mockery instead of love and co-operation?