Historic Wins for Adam Wainwright: Reaches 200 Victories as a Cardinal
St. Louis Cardinals Legend Adam Wainwright Bows Out on a High Note
In a poignant end to a storied career, Adam Wainwright secured his 200th win in a game against the Cincinnati Reds on September 17, 2023. The milestone win came just a few days before the veteran pitcher announced that his season and career were coming to an end.
The game was a thrilling night for St. Louis Cardinals fans, with the team clinging to a one-run lead, thanks to a homer from Willson Contreras in the fourth inning. Wainwright, showing his resilience, pitched seven strong innings, striking out three and walking two. John King pitched two outs in the eighth inning before giving way to closer Ryan Helsley, who finished the game unscathed.
The win against the Reds was Wainwright's last appearance at Busch Stadium in a St. Louis Cardinals uniform. It was a fitting end to a career that spanned over two decades with the team.
Wainwright's 200th win came two years after he achieved the same feat against the Milwaukee Brewers. The 2021 season was a resurgent one for the pitcher, as he went 17-7 with a 3.05 ERA over 206.1 innings. However, the 2023 season was a different story. From June to September, Wainwright had a 0-10 record and a 10.72 ERA, making it hard for fans to watch his performances.
The 2023 season was a disappointing one for the St. Louis Cardinals as a whole. After losing Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina, the team was expected to contend, but a full rebuild seems to be on the horizon. In a bid to rejuvenate the St. Louis Cardinals, the team sold players at the deadline for the first time in a long time during the 2023 season.
Despite the struggles in the 2023 season, Wainwright finished the year with 196 career wins. His impressive career with the St. Louis Cardinals included a 2022 season where he pitched 191.2 innings, had an ERA of 3.71, and a WHIP of 1.283.
Wainwright's career with the St. Louis Cardinals will be remembered for his resilience, his dedication, and his outstanding performances on the field. His 200th win will undoubtedly go down as one of the most memorable moments in St. Louis Cardinals history.