Joli Whited

Written by Joli Whited

Published: 17 Jul 2025

30-facts-about-braves-vs-cardinals
Source: Batterypower.com

Who holds the edge in the Braves vs Cardinals rivalry? This question sparks heated debates among baseball fans. Both teams boast rich histories, legendary players, and passionate fanbases. The Braves, with their roots in Boston, Milwaukee, and now Atlanta, have seen stars like Hank Aaron and Chipper Jones. The Cardinals, hailing from St. Louis, shine with legends like Stan Musial and Albert Pujols. Each matchup between these teams feels like a clash of titans. From World Series showdowns to regular season nail-biters, the rivalry never disappoints. Let's dive into 30 fascinating facts about this storied baseball rivalry that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.

Table of Contents

Braves vs Cardinals: A Historic Rivalry

The Braves and Cardinals have a storied history in Major League Baseball. Their matchups have produced some unforgettable moments, legendary players, and intense competition. Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic rivalry.

  1. The Braves and Cardinals first faced off on May 2, 1892. This game marked the beginning of a long-standing rivalry that has spanned over a century.

  2. The Braves were originally based in Boston before moving to Milwaukee and eventually Atlanta. The Cardinals have always called St. Louis home.

  3. The Braves and Cardinals have met in the postseason multiple times, with the Cardinals holding a slight edge in playoff victories.

  4. Hall of Famer Hank Aaron, one of the greatest Braves players, hit his 715th home run against the Dodgers, but he had many memorable games against the Cardinals too.

  5. The Cardinals' Stan Musial, known as "Stan the Man," had a career batting average of .331 against the Braves, showcasing his dominance.

Legendary Players and Memorable Moments

Both teams have been home to some of the greatest players in baseball history. Their matchups have often featured incredible performances and unforgettable moments.

  1. Bob Gibson, the Cardinals' legendary pitcher, had a career ERA of 2.91 against the Braves, demonstrating his prowess on the mound.

  2. Braves pitcher Greg Maddux, known for his pinpoint control, had a career record of 35-19 against the Cardinals.

  3. In 1996, the Braves' Chipper Jones hit two home runs in a single game against the Cardinals during the National League Championship Series (NLCS).

  4. The Cardinals' Albert Pujols has hit 53 home runs against the Braves, making him one of the most feared hitters in their matchups.

  5. In 2012, the Braves and Cardinals faced off in the first-ever National League Wild Card Game, with the Cardinals emerging victorious.

Iconic Games and Series

Certain games and series between the Braves and Cardinals have become iconic, leaving a lasting impact on fans and the sport itself.

  1. The 1982 NLCS saw the Cardinals defeat the Braves in a three-game sweep, propelling them to the World Series, which they won.

  2. In 2019, the Braves and Cardinals played a thrilling NLDS that went to a decisive Game 5, with the Cardinals winning 13-1 to advance.

  3. The Braves' 1991 "Worst to First" season included a memorable series against the Cardinals, helping Atlanta secure a division title.

  4. The Cardinals' 1964 World Series championship run featured a crucial late-season series against the Braves, where they won key games to clinch the pennant.

  5. In 2000, the Braves and Cardinals faced off in the NLDS, with the Cardinals sweeping the series in three games.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones during their matchups, highlighting their excellence and competitive spirit.

  1. The Braves' Warren Spahn holds the record for most career wins against the Cardinals, with 63 victories.

  2. The Cardinals' Lou Brock stole 938 bases in his career, with many of those coming against the Braves.

  3. The Braves' Eddie Mathews hit 512 career home runs, with 69 of them coming against the Cardinals.

  4. The Cardinals' Rogers Hornsby had a career batting average of .359, with many of his hits coming against the Braves.

  5. The Braves' Phil Niekro, known for his knuckleball, recorded 29 wins against the Cardinals during his career.

Fan Experiences and Rivalry Culture

The rivalry between the Braves and Cardinals extends beyond the field, with fans from both teams passionately supporting their clubs and creating a vibrant atmosphere.

  1. Braves fans often perform the "Tomahawk Chop" during games, a tradition that has become synonymous with the team.

  2. Cardinals fans are known for their "Best Fans in Baseball" moniker, showing unwavering support for their team.

  3. The rivalry has inspired numerous fan forums, blogs, and social media groups where fans discuss and debate the latest matchups.

  4. Both teams have dedicated fan bases that travel well, often filling opposing stadiums with their colors and chants.

  5. The Braves and Cardinals have hosted numerous fan events and promotions during their matchups, enhancing the game-day experience.

Future of the Rivalry

As both teams continue to build their rosters and compete for championships, the future of the Braves vs Cardinals rivalry looks bright.

  1. The Braves' young stars, like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies, promise to keep the team competitive for years to come.

  2. The Cardinals' rising talents, such as Dylan Carlson and Nolan Gorman, are poised to make significant impacts in future matchups.

  3. Both teams have strong farm systems, ensuring a steady stream of talent to fuel the rivalry.

  4. The Braves and Cardinals are both committed to maintaining competitive teams, making their matchups must-watch events.

  5. As long as baseball is played, the Braves vs Cardinals rivalry will continue to captivate fans and produce memorable moments.

Final Whistle on Braves vs Cardinals

Braves vs Cardinals games always bring excitement. With a history full of memorable moments, these teams never fail to entertain. From record-breaking performances to nail-biting finishes, fans are always on the edge of their seats. The rivalry has seen legends rise, like Hank Aaron and Stan Musial, leaving lasting legacies.

Both teams have passionate fan bases that make each game electric. Whether it's a regular season clash or a playoff showdown, the intensity is palpable. The Braves' strong pitching and the Cardinals' consistent hitting create a perfect storm for thrilling baseball.

As you follow future matchups, keep these facts in mind. They add depth to every pitch, hit, and run. Baseball isn't just a game; it's a story told through each inning. So, next time the Braves and Cardinals face off, you'll appreciate the rich history behind every play.

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