Age catches up with everyone. That is the case with St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright, who turned 41 years old on Tuesday.
That natural progression also means that Wainwright is set to join a list of legendary pitchers. As pointed out by the High Heat Stats Twitter account, he will become the seventh pitcher in Cardinals history to start a game for them at age 41 or older.
Adam Wainwright latest in illustrious St. Louis Cardinals’ list
It is quite an impressive list. Five of the previous six pitchers – Pete Alexander, Dazzy Vance, Jesse Haines, Jim Kaat, and John Smoltz – are in the Hall of Fame. The sixth, Sal Maglie, was a two time All Star who twice finished in the top four of the MVP vote despite his career not truly beginning until he was already 33 years old as he had been suspended for jumping to the Mexican League in 1946.
Wainwright could become the sixth to add the Hall of Fame to their resume. He has put together a solid career, posting a 193-114 record with a 3.34 ERA and a 1.208 WHiP over his 2538.2 innings, striking out 2134 batters with 684 walks. Chances are that he will fall short, but he does have the type of resume that could garner consideration.
He is also not showing many signs of slowing down. Wainwright has continued his late career resurrection this season, posting a 3.09 ERA and a 1.172 WHiP in his 163 innings entering Wednesday, striking out 130 batters with 43 walks. Although he has stated that this is his final year, he has certainly performed well enough that, if he changes his mind, he would have plenty of suitors for next year.
But that is a question for the offseason. Right now, Wainwright and the Cardinals have one goal in mind – to win the World Series. That would allow him, as well as Yadier Molina and Albert Pujols, to go out on top, riding off into the sunset with one last championship. If that happens, it could be the final boost needed for Wainwright to get enough support to eventually join his teammates in the Hall.
Adam Wainwright will make history with his next start. He will become the seventh pitcher in St. Louis Cardinals history to start a game after his 41st birthday.