November 12 in Cardinals History

Cardinals History

• Fred Hutchinson replaces Harry Walker as the Cardinal manager in 1955. With the departure of ‘the Hat’, the National League for the first time in its history will not have a player-manager in the circuit.
• One year after playing Class-A ball, Albert Pujols (.329, 37, 130), in 2001, is named the National League Rookie of the Year by the BBWAA. The Cardinal freshman set NL rookie marks for RBIs (130), total bases (360) and extra-base hits (88) and falls one home run shy of tying the National League rookie record of 38 established by Frank Robinson in 1956 as a member of the Reds.
•  Frank “Trader” Lane resigns his post as Cardinals General Manager and is replaced by Bing Devine in 1957.
• In 2019, Cardinals manager Mike Shildt won the Manager of the Year award. He is the first to win this award that never played professional baseball.

 

Transactions on this Date

• St. Louis Cardinals released Ray Stephens
• The St. Louis Cardinals signed Larry Luebbers as a free agent

Birthdays

• Jack Ryan 1868
• Gene Lillard 1913
• Joe Hoerner 1936 –Joe Hoerner was a left-handed pitcher who made a significant impact in Major League Baseball (MLB) during the 1960s and 1970s. Born on November 12, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, Hoerner’s journey from a small town to the big leagues is a testament to his talent and determination. His baseball journey began at the University of Iowa, where he played college baseball and showcased his pitching prowess. His skill on the mound did not go unnoticed, and in 1957, he was signed by the Chicago White Sox as an amateur free agent. This marked the beginning of his professional career, and he worked his way through the minor leagues to earn a spot in the major leagues. In 1963, Joe Hoerner made his MLB debut with the Houston Colt .45s, the team that would later become the Houston Astros. His early years in the league were characterized by his ability to consistently deliver solid performances as a relief pitcher. Hoerner quickly became known for his sharp control and deceptive delivery, making him a valuable asset out of the bullpen.However, it was with the St. Louis Cardinals that Hoerner truly solidified his reputation as one of the premier left-handed relievers of his era. Joining the Cardinals in 1966, he played a crucial role in the team’s success during the late 1960s. Hoerner’s impact was particularly evident in the 1967 season, a memorable year for the Cardinals and their fans.The 1967 season saw the Cardinals facing the Boston Red Sox in the World Series. Hoerner’s contributions in the postseason were vital to the team’s triumph. His stellar performances in high-pressure situations earned him the nickname “The Jesse James of Baseball” for his ability to rob hitters of crucial hits. The Cardinals emerged victorious in a thrilling seven-game series, and Hoerner’s role in securing the championship was etched into baseball history.

  Over the course of his career, Joe Hoerner played for several MLB teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, Kansas City Royals, Atlanta Braves, and Chicago White Sox. His longevity in the league reflected not only his skill on the field but also his adaptability and resilience.

  Beyond his accomplishments on the diamond, Hoerner was known for his amiable personality and camaraderie with teammates. His positive influence in the clubhouse contributed to team morale and cohesion, making him a respected figure among players and fans alike.

  Joe Hoerner retired from professional baseball in 1977, leaving behind a legacy of success and sportsmanship. His impact on the game extended beyond his statistics, as he paved the way for future generations of left-handed relievers. Hoerner’s contributions to the Cardinals’ championship run in 1967 remain a highlight in the franchise’s storied history.

  After his playing days, Hoerner stayed connected to the game, often participating in alumni events and maintaining ties with the baseball community. His legacy endures as a reminder of the skill, dedication, and passion that define a successful MLB career. Joe Hoerner’s name remains synonymous with clutch performances, World Series glory, and a love for the game that resonates through the annals of baseball history.

•  Ron Bryant (1847), a left-handed pitcher, briefly contributed to the St. Louis Cardinals during the latter part of his baseball career. Born on November 12, 1947, in Redlands, California, Bryant showcased his pitching talents early on, earning him a spot in the major leagues.Bryant joined the Cardinals in 1975, marking a new chapter in his career after previous stints with the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals. Although his time with the Cardinals was relatively short, Bryant brought his seasoned skills to the team’s pitching rotation. As a Cardinal, Bryant added depth to the team’s pitching staff, providing valuable experience and left-handed prowess on the mound. Known for his control and crafty pitching style, he endeared himself to fans and teammates alike. While he didn’t experience the same level of team success with the Cardinals as he did during his tenure with the Giants, Bryant’s contributions remained noteworthy. He pitched in ten games and had a 0-1 record with an ERA over 126.00.
• Mike Leake 1987
• Marcell Ozuna 1990

Deaths

• Joe Quinn 1940
• Johnny Echols 1972