Whitey Herzog’s St. Louis Cardinals Career
Whitey Herzog, born Dorrel Norman Elvert Herzog, was a professional baseball player and manager. He is best known for his 11-year tenure as the manager of the St. Louis Cardinals, where he earned the nickname “Whitey” because of his white hair. Herzog’s managing career with the Cardinals began in 1980 and lasted until 1990, during which time he led the team to three National League pennants and the 1982 World Series title.
Early Life
Herzog was born in New Athens, Illinois, and raised in nearby Belleville. He was the son of a truck driver and a homemaker. Herzog’s early life was filled with hardship, as his father died when he was four and his mother had to take on multiple jobs to support the family. Despite the difficult circumstances, Herzog managed to excel in school and sports, particularly in baseball. After graduating high school, Herzog signed with the Washington Senators and began his professional baseball career.
Playing Career
Herzog played for nine teams during his 14-year professional career. He was primarily a left fielder and center fielder, but he also played as a pinch hitter and shortstop. He was known for his speed on the base paths and his ability to hit for average. Herzog was also known for his defensive skills, as he won three Gold Gloves during his career. He finished his playing career with a .257 batting average and 119 home runs.
Post-Playing Career
After his playing career, Herzog went on to become a successful manager. He began his managerial career in 1973 with the Texas Rangers, followed by stints with the Kansas City Royals and California Angels. In 1980, Herzog was hired as the manager of the St. Louis Cardinals.
When Did Whitey Herzog Manage the Cardinals?
Herzog began his 11-year tenure as the manager of the St. Louis Cardinals in 1980. He was hired to replace Ken Boyer, who had been the Cardinals manager from 1978 to 1979. During his time as manager, Herzog led the Cardinals to three National League pennants and the 1982 World Series title. He was also named the National League Manager of the Year in 1985 and 1987. Herzog resigned as the Cardinals manager in 1990, after leading the team to a second-place finish in the National League East.
Whitey Herzog’s Impact on the Cardinals
Herzog’s tenure as the manager of the Cardinals was highly successful. He was responsible for turning the team into a contender, as they had not made the playoffs since 1968 prior to his arrival. Herzog was also known for his strategic approach to the game, as he was an early adopter of the modern sabermetric approach. During his time as manager, he implemented strategies such as the hit and run, aggressive base running, and defensive shifts.
Whitey Herzog’s Legacy
Herzog’s legacy with the Cardinals is one of success and innovation. He is remembered as one of the greatest managers in the history of baseball, and his impact on the game can still be seen today. Herzog was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2010, and his number 24 was retired by the Cardinals in his honor.
Whitey Herzog’s Post-Cardinals Career
After resigning as the manager of the Cardinals in 1990, Herzog went on to manage the California Angels for one season in 1991. He then returned to the Cardinals as the team’s consultant in 1995, where he served until his retirement in 2010. During this time, he also served as a consultant for the Kansas City Royals from 1993 to 1995.
Whitey Herzog’s Later Life
After his retirement from baseball, Herzog remained active in the St. Louis community. He was a frequent attendee of Cardinals games, and he served as an ambassador for the team’s charitable foundation. In 2017, Herzog was diagnosed with Lewy Body dementia, a degenerative brain disease. He passed away in June 2020 at the age of 90.
Whitey Herzog’s Accolades
Whitey Herzog was the recipient of numerous awards and honors during his career. He was named Manager of the Year three times, won two World Series titles, and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2010. He was also honored with a statue outside of Busch Stadium in 2020.
Whitey Herzog’s Legacy
Whitey Herzog is remembered as one of the greatest managers in the history of baseball. He was a highly successful leader who changed the way the game is played. He will be remembered for his innovative strategies and his commitment to the St. Louis Cardinals.
Conclusion
Whitey Herzog’s 11-year tenure as the manager of the St. Louis Cardinals was highly successful. He led the team to three National League pennants and the 1982 World Series title, and he was an early adopter of modern sabermetric strategies. Herzog was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2010 and his number 24 was retired by the Cardinals in his honor. He will be remembered as one of the greatest managers in the history of baseball, and his legacy will live on for years to come.