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St. Louis Cardinals: The Hall of Fame case for Paul Goldschmidt

By David Hill

May 7, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (46) doubles on a line drive to left field during the eighth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports
May 7, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (46) doubles on a line drive to left field during the eighth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Paul Goldschmidt has flown under the radar for most of his career. The St. Louis Cardinals‘ first baseman has been viewed as a solid player, someone that any team would like to have on their roster. However, he has not been considered a generational type of talent, someone who immediately comes to mind when one thinks of future Hall of Famers.

That may need to change. Goldschmidt has quietly started to put together the type of resume that warrants consideration. And, at 34 years old, he still has plenty of time to add to his statistical achievements.

St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt making Hall of Fame case

Goldschmidt has already put together a solid resume. He has been a six time All Star and appears likely to add another appearance in the Mid-Summer Classic this season. A four time Gold Glove winner and four time Silver Slugger, Goldschmidt has also finished as the runner up in the NL MVP balloting twice in his 12 years in the majors.

He certainly has the statistics to back up his impressive trophy case. Goldschmidt has produced a .295/.390/.523 batting line in his 6486 plate appearances entering Friday’s slate of action, having hit 288 homers and 357 doubles. He has even been excellent on the basepaths, with his 143 steals an impressive number for a first baseman.

It is a matter of time before Goldschmidt reaches several statistical milestones. Barring injury, he will hit his 300th homer and drive in his 1000th run at some point this season. He is steadily marching towards 2000 hits and should reach that milestone before his contract with the Cardinals expires at the end of the 2024 season.

By the time his career is over, Goldschmidt will have a very compelling case for induction. He could end up with close to 2500 hits, over 400 homers, and may approach 200 steals. His trophy case is likely to be even more impressive. If he can add a championship to his resume, Goldschmidt may see his path end in Cooperstown.

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Paul Goldschmidt has very quietly put together an impressive career. The St. Louis Cardinals’ first baseman could find his way to the Hall of Fame.

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