The 2022 season for the St. Louis Cardinals was a landmark year, marking their 141st season as a Major League Baseball franchise and their 131st in the National League. Played at Busch Stadium III, which was in its 17th year of operation, the season was characterized by significant player returns, a new managerial era, and a strong performance that saw the team clinch a division title. It was a season that blended nostalgia with competitive play,
creating a memorable experience for fans and players alike.
Managerial Change and Player Comebacks
Leading the team in 2022 was first-year manager Oliver Marmol, who took the helm after the Cardinals fired Mike Shildt in October 2021. Marmol's appointment signaled a new chapter for the club, and his inaugural season was immediately highlighted by the highly anticipated return of former Cardinals star Albert Pujols. Pujols, who had previously played for St. Louis from 2001 to 2011, signed a one-year contract on March 28, 2022, announcing that it would be his final season in professional baseball. This return brought a beloved figure back to the team, igniting excitement among the fanbase.
Adding to the emotional resonance of the season, longtime catcher Yadier Molina also declared that 2022 would be his last. The simultaneous farewell tours of Pujols and Molina, two pillars of the Cardinals franchise for over a decade, created a unique narrative for the season. Their presence on the roster together for one final year underscored the team's rich history and provided a poignant backdrop to their competitive endeavors.
Overcoming the Lockout and Division Success
The start of the 2022 MLB season was preceded by a lockout, which began on December 2, 2021, following the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement between the league and the Major League Baseball Players Association. This labor dispute initially threatened to shorten the season, with MLB announcing that several series would be canceled. However, an agreement was reached on March 10, 2022, ending the lockout and ensuring a full 162-game schedule, with originally canceled games to be made up through doubleheaders.
Despite the disrupted offseason, the Cardinals performed strongly throughout the year. They ultimately won the National League Central division, demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit under new management and with the added motivation of their veteran stars' farewell season. This division title was a testament to the team's collective effort and talent, securing their place in the postseason.
Postseason Performance and Notable Records
While the Cardinals enjoyed regular-season success, their postseason journey was brief. They were upset in the National League Wild Card Series by the Philadelphia Phillies, losing in a two-game sweep. Despite this early exit, the season was marked by other significant milestones. The long-standing battery of starting pitcher Adam Wainwright and catcher Yadier Molina set a new National League/American League record for most starts as a duo, reaching 325 starts together since 2007. This achievement surpassed the previous record held by Mickey Lolich and Bill Freehan, which had stood since 1975. The 2022 season, therefore, was a blend of competitive achievement, emotional farewells, and historical record-breaking moments for the St. Louis Cardinals.
