One of the most celebrated hitters in St. Louis Cardinals history is officially calling it a career. Matt Carpenter announced his retirement from Major League Baseball on Wednesday, ending a noteworthy 14-season run at the highest level.
Carpenter, known for his smooth left-handed swing and unique batting style—he famously strode to the plate without gloves—made his mark as a three-time All-Star. His journey began when the Cardinals selected him in the 13th round of the MLB Draft out of TCU, a testament to his relentless work ethic and determination. It didn’t take long for Carpenter to showcase his talents, quickly ascending to the big leagues and becoming one of the game’s standout performers.
In his first full MLB season, Carpenter made a splash with a .294 batting average, but it was the 2013 campaign where he truly shone. He posted an impressive .318 average, leading the league with 55 doubles and accumulating 199 hits, while also crossing the plate 126 times. His ability to get on base was remarkable; for five consecutive seasons, he crossed the 80-walk mark, showcasing his keen eye and disciplined approach at the plate.
Carpenter’s prowess didn’t plateau there. He led the league in doubles a second time in 2015 and became a consistent power threat, belting more than 20 home runs in four consecutive years. His peak performance came in 2018, when he launched a career-high 36 home runs, coupled with 42 doubles and an impressive 102 walks, resulting in a strong .257/.374/.523 slash line.
After a noteworthy stint that even included time with the Yankees and Padres, Carpenter completed his career back where it started—with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2024. He ends his journey with a career batting average of .259, a figure that reflects some late-career challenges but doesn’t quite encapsulate the smooth, fluid swing that defined much of his time in the big leagues.
Now, as he steps away from the diamond, Matt Carpenter leaves behind a legacy that resonates with fans and players alike—one that celebrates hard work, determination, and the beauty of a great swing. As he swings off into the sunset, we remember not just the numbers, but the joy he brought to the game and the indelible mark he leaves on the rich history of the Cardinals.
