2011 World Series Game 6 Lineups: Cardinals Vs. Rangers

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 56 views

Hey baseball fans! Let's dive into the thrilling details of the 2011 World Series Game 6, a game that's etched in baseball history. This matchup between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Texas Rangers was an absolute rollercoaster, filled with dramatic twists and turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Understanding the lineups from that game gives us a deeper appreciation for the strategies and player matchups that contributed to its legendary status. So, let’s break down who was on the field for both teams and how they played their part in this unforgettable contest. Get ready to reminisce about one of the greatest games ever played!

St. Louis Cardinals Lineup

The St. Louis Cardinals' lineup for Game 6 was a mix of seasoned veterans and young stars, all hungry to bring a World Series title back to the Gateway City. Manager Tony La Russa, known for his strategic mind, pieced together a batting order designed to exploit the Rangers' pitching. Here’s a closer look at the Cardinals' lineup and their contributions:

Rafael Furcal (SS): Furcal led off for the Cardinals, bringing speed and experience to the top of the order. His job was to get on base and set the table for the power hitters behind him. Furcal’s ability to steal bases and disrupt the pitcher's rhythm made him a valuable asset.
Jon Jay (CF): Batting second, Jay was known for his consistent hitting and ability to handle center field. His role was to move runners over and drive them in when the opportunity arose. Jay's steady presence in the lineup provided a reliable offensive threat.
Matt Holliday (LF): As one of the Cardinals' premier hitters, Holliday brought power and run-producing capabilities to the lineup. His presence in the heart of the order made opposing pitchers think twice. Holliday's ability to hit for average and power made him a key component of the Cardinals' offense.
Albert Pujols (1B): Pujols, arguably the best hitter in baseball at the time, was the centerpiece of the Cardinals' offense. His ability to hit for power and average made him a constant threat to drive in runs. Every at-bat with Pujols at the plate was a moment of anticipation and excitement.
Lance Berkman (RF): Berkman provided veteran leadership and a potent bat in the middle of the lineup. His experience in high-pressure situations made him a valuable asset. Berkman's knack for clutch hits added another layer of danger to the Cardinals' offense.
David Freese (3B): Freese, a hometown hero, had a knack for coming through in the clutch. His performance in Game 6 would cement his place in Cardinals' lore forever. Freese's ability to rise to the occasion made him a fan favorite.
Yadier Molina (C): Molina, a Gold Glove catcher, was also a key contributor on offense. His ability to handle the pitching staff and provide timely hits made him an invaluable part of the team. Molina's leadership behind the plate was just as important as his contributions with the bat.
Nick Punto (2B): Punto provided solid defense and a scrappy approach at the plate. His role was to get on base and disrupt the opposing pitcher. Punto's hustle and determination made him a valuable role player.
Chris Carpenter (P): Carpenter, the Cardinals' ace, took the mound in Game 6, aiming to deliver a strong performance and lead his team to victory. His experience and composure were crucial in such a high-stakes game. Carpenter's ability to pitch under pressure made him the ideal choice for this pivotal contest.

Texas Rangers Lineup

The Texas Rangers, managed by Ron Washington, came into Game 6 with a 3-2 series lead and were just one win away from their first World Series title. Their lineup was filled with power hitters and clutch performers, ready to seize the moment. Let's take a look at the Rangers' lineup and how they matched up against the Cardinals:

Ian Kinsler (2B): Kinsler led off for the Rangers, bringing speed and power to the top of the order. His ability to get on base and drive the ball made him a key offensive threat. Kinsler's aggressive style of play set the tone for the Rangers' offense.
Elvis Andrus (SS): Andrus, a slick-fielding shortstop, also contributed with his bat. His role was to move runners over and create scoring opportunities. Andrus's defensive skills were just as important as his offensive contributions.
Josh Hamilton (CF): Hamilton, a former MVP, brought immense power to the Rangers' lineup. His ability to change the game with one swing made him a constant threat. Hamilton's presence in the lineup commanded attention from the Cardinals' pitching staff.
Adrian Beltré (3B): Beltré, a Gold Glove third baseman, was also a dangerous hitter. His ability to hit for average and power made him a key run producer. Beltré's defensive prowess and offensive capabilities made him a cornerstone of the Rangers' team.
Mike Napoli (C): Napoli provided power and run-producing capabilities from the catcher position. His ability to drive in runs made him a valuable asset in the middle of the lineup. Napoli's offensive contributions were crucial for the Rangers.
Nelson Cruz (RF): Cruz, known for his strong arm and powerful bat, added another dimension to the Rangers' offense. His ability to hit home runs made him a constant threat to change the game. Cruz's power was a key component of the Rangers' offensive attack.
David Murphy (LF): Murphy provided a steady bat and solid defense in left field. His role was to contribute with timely hits and make plays in the field. Murphy's consistency made him a reliable presence in the Rangers' lineup.
Craig Gentry (DH): Gentry's speed was a valuable asset for the Rangers, often used as a pinch runner but in game 6 he was in the lineup as a DH. His ability to steal bases and disrupt the pitcher's rhythm made him a weapon on the basepaths.
Colby Lewis (P): Lewis took the mound for the Rangers, aiming to shut down the Cardinals' offense and secure a World Series title for Texas. His experience and composure were crucial in this high-pressure situation. Lewis's performance was key to the Rangers' hopes of victory.

Game 6: A Recap

Game 6 of the 2011 World Series was an epic battle that featured multiple lead changes, clutch hits, and dramatic moments. The Cardinals, facing elimination, fought tooth and nail to stay alive, while the Rangers were determined to clinch their first World Series title. David Freese's heroics, including his game-tying triple in the ninth and his game-winning home run in the eleventh, are now legendary. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing their resilience and determination. Ultimately, the Cardinals prevailed, setting the stage for a decisive Game 7.

Key Moments

The Tenth Inning: The Rangers were twice one strike away from winning the World Series, but the Cardinals managed to tie the game both times.
David Freese's Heroics: Freese's game-tying triple and game-winning home run cemented his place in World Series history.
Nelson Cruz's Misplay: A ball that Cruz could not catch in right field in the bottom of the ninth allowed the Cardinals to tie the game.

Impact of the Lineups

The lineups for both teams played a crucial role in the drama that unfolded. The Cardinals' mix of veterans and young players came through in the clutch, while the Rangers' power hitters threatened to break the game open at any moment. The strategic decisions made by managers Tony La Russa and Ron Washington also influenced the outcome, as they navigated through pitching changes and late-game situations.

In conclusion, the 2011 World Series Game 6 was a classic matchup between two talented teams, each with their own unique strengths and strategies. The lineups for both the St. Louis Cardinals and the Texas Rangers were filled with players who rose to the occasion, creating a game that will be remembered for generations. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the 2011 World Series Game 6 is a testament to the excitement and drama of baseball at its finest. Remember, baseball fans, it's moments like these that make us love the game!