With Cardinals Opening Day approaching, Bernie asked: Where have all the stars gone?
Rather than debating playoff chances or managerial decisions, Bernie focused on the lack of true star power on the current roster. While young shortstop Masyn Winn is promising, he’s not yet a franchise-altering presence. Nolan Arenado, though accomplished, has seen a decline in performance since his peak years in Colorado. Closer Ryan Helsley is talented but may not be with the team long-term.
Bernie contrasted this with the Cardinals’ long history of iconic players—Stan Musial, Bob Gibson, Ozzie Smith, Lou Brock, Albert Pujols, and many more. Even non-Hall of Famers like Jim Edmonds and Keith Hernandez carried significant star power. He also highlighted the influence of legendary managers (Tony La Russa, Whitey Herzog), executives (Branch Rickey), and broadcasters (Jack Buck, Mike Shannon), all of whom helped shape the Cardinals’ identity.
A key statistic Bernie pointed out was that, from 1915 through 2022, the Cardinals had at least one future Hall of Famer on their roster, coaching staff, or front office every season. While Paul Goldschmidt and Arenado could extend that streak, their Cooperstown status remains uncertain.The Cardinals’ decline in star power is evident in their All-Star selections. From 2010-2015, they averaged nearly five All-Stars per season; since 2016, that number has dropped to just over two. In three of the last four seasons, they’ve had only one All-Star—more typical of struggling franchises than a historically elite team.
This decline has contributed to lower attendance. In 2024, the Cardinals fell below three million home fans for the first time since 2003, though they still ranked seventh in MLB attendance. Bernie noted that St. Louis has traditionally drawn fans with its star players, making this shift significant.
Looking ahead, Bernie questioned where the next generation of stars will come from. In the past, St. Louis had household names; today, few outside the region would consider its players must-watch stars.
Bernie stressed that while the Cardinals remain a storied franchise, their current lack of star power is undeniable. Restoring their status as a marquee team will depend on whether young talent can rise to the occasion. Until then, fans may find themselves longing for the days when Cardinals baseball meant greatness.