World Series champion David Freese declines the Cardinals’ invitation

“This is something I humbly considered even before the voting process began,” Freese said in a statement. “I am aware of the impact you have had in helping the team bring great memories to the city I grew up in, including the eleventh championship. …

“I feel very strongly about my decision and understand how people might feel about it. I get it. I’ll wear it. Thank you for always being there for me, and I’m excited to be around the Cardinals as we move forward.”

Freese was the World Series MVP and National League Championship Series MVP, driving in 21 runs during the 2011 postseason to set an MLB record. In the World Series, he hit . 348 with seven RBIs, three doubles, and an epic Game 6 home run that kept the Cardinals alive in the Series against the Texas Rangers.

Overall, he spent five of his 11 MLB seasons in St. Louis after entering the majors in 2009. He was an All-Star selection in 2012. Including stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, and Pittsburgh Pirates, Freese had a career. 277 hits when he retired after the 2019 season. He fared better in the postseason with a . 299 average.

“I look at who I was during my tenure, and it weighs heavily on me,” said Freese, who was a top recipient of votes into the Cardinals Hall of Fame in online balloting by fans. “The Cardinals and the entire city have always had my back in everything. I am forever grateful to be a part of such an amazing organization and fan base then, now and in the future.

“…I am particularly sorry to the fans who took the time to cast their ballots. Cardinal Nation is the main reason why I have unfortunately waited so long for this decision and made it a headache for so many people.”

The Cardinals would have reached their last game against the Rangers in Game 6 of the 2011 World Series. In the bottom of the ninth, with the Cardinals trailing 7-5 and facing closer Neftali Feliz, Freese hit a two-out, two-to-three pitch to send the game into innings. extra.

In his next punt, in the 11th inning, Freese cemented his status as champion with a home run off Mark Lowe to force a deciding game 7, which St. Louis won 6–2 with the help of two consecutive runs. by Freese.

Freese was born in Texas, but grew up in suburban St. Louis and was raised by the Cardinals. He said he will continue to be around the Cardinals organization, participating in alumni activities and fan-related events.

“Although we are disappointed that David declined to be inducted into our Hall of Fame, we respect his decision and look forward to celebrating his amazing Cardinals career in other ways moving forward,” Cardinals President Bill DeWitt III said in a statement. “He is always welcome at Busch Stadium.”

Jose Oquendo and Max Lanier will be inducted into the Cardinals Hall of Fame on August 20.

Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.