Jim Edmonds – St. Louis Cardinals Legend Celebrates 20 Years Since World Series Victory
Few players captured the hearts of St. Louis Cardinals fans quite like Jim Edmonds. The Gold Glove center fielder joined the Cardinals in 2000 after the Anaheim Angels traded him. He quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the team’s success in the early 2000s.
During his eight seasons with St. Louis, Edmonds combined spectacular defensive plays with impressive power hitting, helping lead the Cardinals to six playoff appearances and a World Series championship in 2006.
Edmonds wasn’t just a defensive wizard who routinely made highlight-reel catches – he was also a consistent offensive threat for the Cardinals. He hit 241 home runs during his St. Louis tenure and earned three of his four career All-Star selections while wearing the birds on the bat. In 2000, he became the first Cardinals outfielder ever to hit 40 or more home runs in a season, demonstrating his remarkable power from the left side of the plate.
The impact Edmonds had on Cardinals baseball extends beyond statistics. His diving catches and wall-crashing plays energized Busch Stadium crowds and elevated the team during crucial moments. When Cardinals fans reminisce about the team’s golden era of the 2000s, Edmonds’ name inevitably emerges as one of the franchise’s most beloved figures – a player who excelled on both sides of the ball and helped establish St. Louis as a National League powerhouse.
Contents
Early Life and Career Beginnings
James Patrick Edmonds was born on June 27, 1970, in Fullerton, California. His journey from a talented high school player to one of baseball’s elite outfielders began in the suburbs of Los Angeles.
Entry into MLB
Jim Edmonds’ professional baseball journey began when the California Angels selected him in the 7th round of the 1988 MLB Draft. The 169th overall pick wasn’t initially projected as a future star. He came out of Diamond Bar High School with promising raw talent but needed development.
The young outfielder spent several years climbing through the Angels’ farm system. His left-handed swing and natural defensive instincts caught scouts’ attention early on.
Edmonds made steady progress through the minors before finally getting his first taste of major league action. His development represented the classic path of a player refining his skills away from the spotlight.
Jim Edmonds with the California Angels
Edmonds established himself as a key player for the California Angels during the 1990s. His defensive prowess in center field quickly became his calling card, with spectacular diving catches that regularly made highlight reels.
The left-handed hitter’s offensive game blossomed as well. Between 1995-1999, Edmonds developed into a complete player, combining power hitting with excellent fielding.
Injuries hampered portions of his Angels career, but when healthy, he was among the most dynamic outfielders in baseball. He earned his first All-Star selection and Gold Glove awards during this period.
| Year | Team | Games | HR | RBI | AVG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | Angels | 93 | 7 | 31 | .273 |
| 1995 | Angels | 120 | 33 | 86 | .290 |
| 1997 | Angels | 153 | 26 | 80 | .291 |
Jim Edmonds’ Tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals
Jim Edmonds cemented his legacy during his eight seasons with the Cardinals from 2000-2007, transforming into one of the franchise’s most iconic outfielders. His combination of spectacular defense and powerful hitting made him a cornerstone of the team’s success in the early 2000s.
Key Achievements and Performance
Edmonds’ offensive production in St. Louis was nothing short of remarkable. He hit .285 with 241 home runs and 713 RBIs during his Cardinals career. His best season came in 2004 when he posted a .301 average with 42 home runs and 111 RBIs, finishing fifth in MVP voting.
The lefty slugger earned three Silver Slugger Awards with the Cardinals, showcasing his offensive prowess. His signature left-handed swing produced some of the most memorable home runs in Busch Stadium history.
In the postseason, Edmonds delivered clutch performances. His walk-off home run in Game 6 of the 2004 NLCS against Houston remains one of the most iconic moments in Cardinals playoff history.
| Season | AVG | HR | RBI | OPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | .295 | 42 | 108 | 1.027 |
| 2004 | .301 | 42 | 111 | 1.061 |
| 2006 | .257 | 19 | 70 | .821 |
Positioning and Defensive Skills
Edmonds earned six Gold Glove Awards as a Cardinal, establishing himself as perhaps the premier defensive center fielder of his era. His diving catches and fearless wall collisions became his trademark.
His uncanny ability to read the ball off the bat allowed him to play a shallow center field, taking away countless hits. This positioning advantage helped Cardinals pitchers lower their ERAs.
What made Edmonds special defensively wasn’t just athletic ability, but his baseball intelligence. He studied hitters meticulously and positioned himself perfectly for each batter.
The Cardinals benefited from his range in Busch Stadium’s spacious outfield. His defensive WAR (Wins Above Replacement) consistently ranked among the best in the National League during his prime years.
Contributions to Cardinals’ Success
Edmonds was instrumental in the Cardinals’ postseason runs, including the 2006 World Series championship. During that title run, he provided veteran leadership despite battling injuries.
The Cardinals acquired Edmonds in a trade with the Angels that sent pitcher Kent Bottenfield and second baseman Adam Kennedy to Anaheim. The deal became one of the most lopsided in Cardinals history.
Edmonds signed a six-year, $57 million contract extension with St. Louis in 2000, showing the organization’s commitment to building around him.
Alongside Albert Pujols and Scott Rolen, Edmonds formed the “MV3” core that powered the Cardinals to multiple division titles. This trio became the heart of one of the most successful eras in modern Cardinals history.
His final Cardinals season came in 2007 before being traded to San Diego. He briefly attempted a comeback with St. Louis in 2011, signing a minor league deal before retiring due to Achilles tendon issues.
Achievements and Recognition
Jim Edmonds established himself as one of the most decorated players in Cardinals history through his exceptional fielding, powerful hitting, and clutch performances. His trophy case reflects both his individual excellence and his value to the championship-caliber Cardinals teams of the 2000s.
Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards
Edmonds’ defensive prowess in center field made him one of the premier outfielders of his era. He captured an impressive eight Gold Glove Awards during his career, with six of those coming during his tenure with the Cardinals (2000-2005). His acrobatic catches, fearless wall-crashing grabs, and precise throwing arm made him a defensive highlight reel.
Beyond his glove, Edmonds’ bat earned him recognition as well. He won the Silver Slugger Award in 2004, a season in which he displayed his complete offensive arsenal. That year, he posted impressive numbers while helping the Cardinals reach the World Series:
| Stat | 2004 Value |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .301 |
| Home Runs | 42 |
| RBIs | 111 |
| OPS | 1.061 |
His combination of defensive excellence and offensive production made him a rare dual-threat player during his prime years in St. Louis.
All-Star Appearances and MVP Contention
Edmonds represented the Cardinals in the All-Star Game three times (2000, 2003, 2005), showcasing his consistent excellence among the league’s elite players. His 2000 season was particularly notable as he became the first Cardinals outfielder ever to hit 40 or more home runs in a season.
While the MVP award eluded him, Edmonds received significant MVP consideration in multiple seasons. His best finish came in 2004, when he placed fifth in National League MVP voting. That season, he helped power the Cardinals to a league-leading 105 wins while delivering clutch performances in crucial games.
His consistent production made him a cornerstone of four Cardinals playoff teams, including the 2004 National League champions. Edmonds’ postseason heroics, particularly his game-winning home run in Game 6 of the 2004 NLCS, cemented his legacy as a player who elevated his game when it mattered most.
Entry into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame
In 2014, Edmonds received the ultimate organizational honor when he was inducted into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame. This recognition placed him among the franchise’s all-time greats, celebrating his eight seasons with the club (2000-2007).
The honor acknowledged not just his individual statistics but his role in the Cardinals’ success during his tenure. Edmonds helped lead the team to six playoff appearances and two National League pennants.
His Cardinals Hall of Fame case was built on remarkable numbers: 241 home runs, 713 RBIs, and a .285 batting average across his St. Louis career. More than the statistics, fans remember his flair for dramatic plays and clutch hitting that defined an era of Cardinals baseball.
While Edmonds hasn’t yet received induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, many Cardinals fans and baseball analysts believe his overall career merits consideration for Cooperstown.
Statistical Overview
Jim Edmonds’ time with the St. Louis Cardinals showcased his exceptional offensive production and defensive brilliance, firmly establishing him as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
Jim Edmonds’ Offensive Stats
During his Cardinals tenure (2000-2007), Edmonds put together impressive offensive numbers that rank among the best in team history. He hit 241 home runs and drove in 713 RBIs while wearing the Cardinal uniform.
His batting line with St. Louis was exceptional: a .285 batting average alongside a robust on-base percentage that regularly exceeded .370. Edmonds’ power numbers were particularly notable in 2004, when he belted 42 homers and drove in 111 runs.
Many of Edmonds’ clutch hits came when the team needed them most. Twenty-two of his 83 RBIs in one season came with two outs, highlighting his ability to deliver in pressure situations.
| Category | Cardinals Career | MLB Career |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 1,105 | 2,011 |
| Home Runs | 241 | 393 |
| Hits | 1,033 | 1,949 |
| RBIs | 713 | 1,199 |
Defensive Metrics and Abilities
What set Edmonds apart was his defensive wizardry in center field. His highlight-reel catches became legendary, but the metrics back up what fans witnessed. Edmonds earned six of his eight career Gold Gloves while patrolling center field for the Cardinals.
His defensive WAR (Wins Above Replacement) consistently ranked among the best outfielders of his era. Edmonds combined spectacular diving catches with excellent positioning and route efficiency.
The 6’1″ outfielder’s defensive instincts were unparalleled. He made the difficult plays look routine and the impossible plays somehow possible. Edmonds’ ability to play shallow yet still track down deep drives gave Cardinals pitchers confidence to challenge hitters.
His total career WAR of approximately 60.4 demonstrates his all-around value, with a significant portion accumulated during his St. Louis years when he was at his defensive peak.
Later Career and Retirement
In Jim Edmonds’ final years in baseball, he showcased his veteran presence across multiple teams. He ultimately returned to where he enjoyed his greatest success. His journey through four teams in three seasons demonstrated both his enduring value and the physical toll of a lengthy career.
Transition to Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers
Edmonds’ path after leaving St. Louis took several turns. In 2008, he signed with the Padres but was traded mid-season to the Chicago Cubs. After sitting out the entire 2009 season, Edmonds made a comeback in 2010, signing with the Milwaukee Brewers.
With the Brewers, the 40-year-old outfielder showed he still had pop in his bat, hitting .286 with 8 home runs in 73 games. His veteran presence proved valuable to the younger Milwaukee squad.
On August 9, 2010, the Brewers traded Edmonds to the Cincinnati Reds for outfielder Chris Dickerson. The Reds were pushing for a playoff spot, and Edmonds contributed despite battling injuries.
| Team (2010) | Games | Avg | HR | RBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brewers | 73 | .286 | 8 | 20 |
| Reds | 13 | .207 | 2 | 5 |
Brief Stints with the Padres and Cubs
Before his final season, Edmonds had short but notable tenures with both San Diego and Chicago. The Padres acquired him in December 2007, but his stay was brief.
After hitting .235 with 3 home runs in 90 games with San Diego, he was traded to the Cubs in May 2008. Edmonds found renewed success in Chicago, batting .256 with 19 home runs in just 85 games.
His power surge with the Cubs demonstrated his ability to still impact games even in his late 30s. Though not the defensive wizard of his prime years, Edmonds remained a capable outfielder who could deliver clutch hits.
Retirement and Post-Career Activities
Attempting another comeback, Edmonds signed a minor league contract with the Cardinals on February 4, 2011. However, his persistent Achilles tendon injury forced him to announce his retirement on February 18, 2011, at age 40.
Edmonds retired with impressive career numbers, including 393 home runs, 1,199 RBIs, and a .284 batting average over 17 seasons. His eight Gold Gloves and four All-Star selections cemented his legacy.
After retiring, Edmonds transitioned to broadcasting, joining Fox Sports Midwest as an analyst for Cardinals games. His insights and firsthand knowledge of the organization made him a natural fit in the broadcast booth.
Edmonds’ post-playing career has kept him connected to St. Louis, where he remains beloved for his spectacular plays and contributions to the 2006 World Series championship team.
Legacy
Jim Edmonds’ career with the St. Louis Cardinals left an indelible mark on the franchise and baseball history. His spectacular defensive plays and consistent offensive production established him as one of the most complete outfielders of his era.
Impact on the Game of Baseball
Edmonds revolutionized center field play with his fearless, all-out defensive style. His diving catches became highlight-reel staples on SportsCenter, particularly his iconic over-the-shoulder grab in 1997 against Kansas City (while still with the Angels) that many consider among the greatest defensive plays ever.
With St. Louis, Edmonds secured six Gold Glove Awards during his eight seasons (2000-2007), cementing his reputation as an elite defender. His willingness to crash into walls and dive for seemingly uncatchable balls changed how center fielders approached the position.
At the plate, Edmonds was equally impactful, averaging 30 home runs and 90 RBIs during his Cardinals prime while maintaining a .285 batting average. His left-handed power swing was perfectly suited for Busch Stadium.
His abrupt departure from Cardinals broadcasting in 2025 created controversy but hasn’t diminished his on-field legacy.
Comparisons With Other Great Outfielders
When measured against his contemporaries and historical greats, Edmonds stands tall despite lacking Hall of Fame induction.
| Player | Gold Gloves | Career WAR | OPS+ | MLB Seasons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jim Edmonds | 8 | 60.4 | 132 | 17 |
| Kirby Puckett | 6 | 51.1 | 124 | 12 |
| Andre Dawson | 8 | 64.8 | 119 | 21 |
| Ken Boyer* | 5 | 62.8 | 116 | 15 |
| *Third baseman included for Cardinals comparison |
Edmonds’ defensive metrics and highlight plays rival those of Kirby Puckett, while his power numbers exceeded the Twins legend. Both were known for clutch postseason performances and defensive brilliance.
Against Andre Dawson, Edmonds posted a higher career OPS+ (132 vs. 119) despite fewer seasons. Both were complete outfielders who combined power and defense, though Dawson earned MVP honors that eluded Edmonds.
Within Cardinals history, only Ken Boyer matches Edmonds’ combination of defensive excellence and offensive production, though at third base rather than outfield.
Personal Life
Jim Edmonds’ life off the baseball diamond has been as eventful as his stellar career with the Cardinals. His family dynamics and community involvement have made him a notable figure in St. Louis beyond his athletic achievements.
Family and Relationships
Edmonds has navigated a complex personal life that includes multiple marriages and children. He has been married three times, first to Lee Ann Horton and then to Allison Jayne Raski before his third marriage. His marriage to Meghan King, who later gained fame on “Real Housewives of Orange County,” ended in divorce after five years.
Edmonds is a father to several children from his marriages. He had two daughters with his first wife, Lee Ann, who sadly passed away from cancer. With Allison, he had a son and a daughter. He later welcomed twin boys with Meghan King.
Following his split from Meghan, Edmonds began dating Kortnie O’Connor, whom he married in 2022. At 50 years old, Edmonds continues to balance family life with his post-baseball endeavors.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Edmonds has maintained strong ties to the St. Louis community through various charitable efforts. He’s been particularly active with Cardinals Care, the team’s community foundation that focuses on helping children.
His philanthropic work includes hosting charity golf tournaments and making appearances at fundraising events throughout the St. Louis area. Edmonds has used his platform and resources to support causes related to children’s health and education.
In 2023, he donated a significant portion of memorabilia from his playing days for a charity auction benefiting local youth baseball programs, showing his commitment to growing the sport at the grassroots level.
Edmonds continues to call St. Louis home, although he recently listed his 17,200-square-foot mansion for nearly $9 million. His continued presence in the city reflects his enduring connection to the community that embraced him during his playing career.
Jim Edmonds in Popular Culture
Jim Edmonds has established a significant presence beyond the baseball diamond, particularly through his broadcasting work and engagement with fans on social media platforms.
Media Appearances and Broadcasting Career
After retiring from Major League Baseball, Jim Edmonds transitioned smoothly into broadcasting, becoming a familiar voice for Cardinals fans. He joined Fox Sports Midwest (now Bally Sports Midwest) in 2013 as a color analyst for Cardinals games.
Edmonds quickly developed a reputation for his detailed analysis of outfield play and hitting mechanics. His pre-game and post-game commentary provided viewers with insider perspectives that only an eight-time Gold Glove winner could offer.
In February 2023, Edmonds signed a multi-year contract with what became FanDuel Sports Network, reportedly worth approximately $2.1 million annually.
However, Edmonds’ broadcasting career hit a notable bump in 2024 when he departed the broadcast booth. In a candid interview with 101ESPN, he expressed dissatisfaction with the current atmosphere surrounding the Cardinals organization.
Social Media Presence
Edmonds maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on Instagram where he frequently shares glimpses of his personal life with over 125,000 followers. His account (@jimeedmonds) features a mix of family photos, baseball memories, and current activities.
Unlike many retired athletes, Edmonds doesn’t shy away from addressing controversies through social media. When discussions about team dynamics arise, he often provides his unfiltered perspective to fans.
His appearances on reality television through his ex-wife’s participation in “Real Housewives of Orange County” also expanded his visibility beyond baseball circles. This exposure introduced Edmonds to audiences who might not have been familiar with his athletic achievements.
Edmonds occasionally uses his platforms to promote charitable causes, particularly those related to children’s hospitals in the St. Louis area.
Business Ventures
Beyond his achievements on the baseball diamond, Jim Edmonds has built an impressive portfolio of business endeavors since retiring from Major League Baseball. His entrepreneurial spirit has led him into the restaurant industry and various partnership opportunities.
Restaurant Ownership
Edmonds made a splash in the St. Louis dining scene with the opening of “Fifteen,” a multi-level upscale restaurant and nightclub located in the 1900 block of Locust Street. The establishment’s name cleverly references his jersey number from his playing days with the Cardinals.
The swanky venue opened in late 2013, bringing a high-end dining experience to downtown St. Louis. Fifteen quickly became a popular spot for both sports fans and those seeking an upscale night out.
Edmonds has expanded his restaurant footprint in the St. Louis area with additional ventures in Frontenac, Missouri. His establishments have become known for their sports memorabilia displays and menu items that often pay homage to his baseball career.
Endorsements and Partnerships
Since retiring from the game, Edmonds has leveraged his baseball fame into several strategic business partnerships. Most recently, he has invested in innovative sports equipment technology.
In early 2024, Edmonds backed a football helmet company. The company developed what they claim is a lighter and safer helmet design compared to existing products. This investment shows his interest in sports safety technology and equipment innovation.
His business acumen extends to media as well. Edmonds served as a baseball analyst for Cardinals broadcasts on Bally Sports Midwest. However, he will not be returning for the 2025 season. This television role complemented his other business ventures while keeping him connected to the Cardinals organization.
