2011 World Series Game 6 Lineups: A Detailed Look

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 50 views

Game 6 of the 2011 World Series is etched in baseball history as one of the most dramatic and unforgettable contests ever played. The St. Louis Cardinals faced off against the Texas Rangers in a game filled with twists, turns, and stunning comebacks. Understanding the significance of this game requires a deep dive into the lineups that both teams fielded, as these choices played a crucial role in the unfolding drama. This article aims to provide an exhaustive analysis of the starting lineups for both the Cardinals and the Rangers in that pivotal Game 6, examining the players, their roles, and their impact on the game's outcome. We will also explore the strategic decisions made by the managers and how these decisions influenced the flow of the game.

St. Louis Cardinals Lineup

The St. Louis Cardinals, managed by Tony La Russa, were known for their resilience and never-say-die attitude. Their Game 6 lineup was a blend of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance, all geared towards extending the series to a decisive Game 7. Let's break down the Cardinals' lineup:

Rafael Furcal (SS): Leading off for the Cardinals was shortstop Rafael Furcal. Furcal, a seasoned veteran, was acquired mid-season and brought a spark to the Cardinals' offense. His primary role was to get on base and set the table for the power hitters in the lineup. Furcal's speed and ability to draw walks made him a valuable asset at the top of the order. In Game 6, Furcal went 1-for-5 with a run scored. His presence at the top of the lineup provided the Cardinals with a spark, and his ability to get on base was crucial in setting up scoring opportunities. Furcal's defensive stability at shortstop also played a key role in preventing the Rangers from mounting significant offensive threats. His experience and leadership were invaluable to the Cardinals, especially in such a high-pressure game.
Jon Jay (CF): Batting second and playing center field was Jon Jay. Jay was a consistent and reliable presence in the Cardinals' lineup throughout the season. His blend of speed, defensive prowess, and ability to hit for average made him an ideal number two hitter. Jay's role was to move runners over, get on base, and play solid defense in center field. In Game 6, Jay went 2-for-5 with a crucial RBI. His performance was indicative of his value to the team, as he consistently contributed both offensively and defensively. Jay's ability to handle the pressure of the World Series was evident, and he played a significant role in the Cardinals' success.
Albert Pujols (1B): Arguably the greatest player of his generation, Albert Pujols batted third and played first base. Pujols was the heart and soul of the Cardinals' offense. His prodigious power and ability to hit for average made him the most feared hitter in the lineup. In what would be his final game as a Cardinal, Pujols went 2-for-5. While he didn't have the same explosive impact as in previous games, his presence in the lineup was enough to command respect from the Rangers' pitching staff. Pujols' leadership and experience were invaluable to the Cardinals, and his performance in Game 6 was a testament to his greatness. His ability to deliver in crucial moments was a key factor in the Cardinals' success throughout the series.
Matt Holliday (LF): Batting cleanup and playing left field was Matt Holliday. Holliday was another key power hitter in the Cardinals' lineup. His ability to drive in runs and provide protection for Pujols made him a crucial component of the offense. Holliday's presence in the cleanup spot added depth to the Cardinals' lineup and made it difficult for opposing pitchers to navigate through the heart of the order. In Game 6, Holliday went 1-for-5. His contributions were essential in driving the Cardinals' offense, and his ability to come through in critical situations made him a valuable asset to the team.
Lance Berkman (RF): Batting fifth and playing right field was Lance Berkman. Berkman, a veteran slugger, brought a wealth of experience and power to the Cardinals' lineup. His ability to hit for average and drive in runs made him a dangerous hitter in the middle of the order. Berkman's role was to provide additional offensive firepower and complement the other power hitters in the lineup. In Game 6, Berkman had one of the most memorable hits of his career, a two-run single in the ninth inning that kept the Cardinals alive. This clutch hit underscored his value to the team and his ability to perform under pressure. Berkman's experience and leadership were also crucial in guiding the Cardinals through the intense moments of the game.
David Freese (3B): Batting sixth and playing third base was David Freese. Freese, a hometown hero, had a breakout performance in the postseason. His clutch hitting and solid defense made him an integral part of the Cardinals' success. Freese's role was to provide offensive production from the bottom of the order and play reliable defense at third base. In Game 6, Freese delivered one of the most iconic hits in World Series history, a game-tying triple in the ninth inning and a walk-off home run in the eleventh inning. His performance in this game cemented his place in Cardinals' lore and highlighted his ability to rise to the occasion. Freese's contributions were instrumental in the Cardinals' victory.
Yadier Molina (C): Batting seventh and catching was Yadier Molina. Molina, a Gold Glove-winning catcher, was the backbone of the Cardinals' defense. His ability to handle the pitching staff and control the running game made him an invaluable asset. Molina's role was to provide solid defense behind the plate and contribute offensively when possible. In Game 6, Molina went 1-for-4 with a walk. His defensive prowess and leadership were crucial in guiding the Cardinals' pitching staff through the game. Molina's ability to call a game and manage the pitching staff was a key factor in the Cardinals' success.
Nick Punto (2B): Batting eighth and playing second base was Nick Punto. Punto was known for his versatility and defensive skills. His role was to provide solid defense at second base and contribute offensively when possible. In Game 6, Punto went 0-for-3. While his offensive contributions were limited, his defensive stability was important in preventing the Rangers from generating scoring opportunities. Punto's experience and versatility made him a valuable asset to the Cardinals.
Edwin Jackson (P): Starting pitcher Edwin Jackson batted ninth. Jackson's role was to provide a quality start and keep the Rangers' offense in check. While he wasn't known for his hitting, his primary focus was on delivering a strong performance on the mound. In Game 6, Jackson pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs. His performance was solid, and he kept the Cardinals in the game. Jackson's ability to pitch under pressure was crucial in the Cardinals' efforts to secure a victory.

Texas Rangers Lineup

The Texas Rangers, managed by Ron Washington, were a potent offensive team with a lineup full of power hitters. Their Game 6 lineup was designed to capitalize on their offensive strengths and put pressure on the Cardinals' pitching staff. Here's a look at the Rangers' lineup:

Ian Kinsler (2B): Leading off for the Rangers was second baseman Ian Kinsler. Kinsler was a dynamic player with a blend of speed and power. His role was to get on base and set the tone for the Rangers' offense. Kinsler's ability to hit for average and steal bases made him a dangerous leadoff hitter. In Game 6, Kinsler went 2-for-5 with a run scored. His performance at the top of the lineup provided the Rangers with a spark, and his ability to create scoring opportunities was crucial in their offensive efforts.
Elvis Andrus (SS): Batting second and playing shortstop was Elvis Andrus. Andrus was known for his defensive prowess and ability to get on base. His role was to move runners over, get on base, and play solid defense at shortstop. In Game 6, Andrus went 1-for-5 with a run scored. His contributions were essential in supporting the Rangers' offense and maintaining a strong defensive presence.
Josh Hamilton (CF): Batting third and playing center field was Josh Hamilton. Hamilton was one of the most feared hitters in baseball, known for his prodigious power and ability to drive in runs. His role was to provide offensive firepower and drive in key runs for the Rangers. In Game 6, Hamilton went 1-for-5 with a two-run home run in the tenth inning. This clutch hit put the Rangers ahead and seemed to seal the victory, highlighting his importance to the team. Hamilton's ability to deliver in critical moments made him a valuable asset to the Rangers.
Adrian Beltré (3B): Batting cleanup and playing third base was Adrian Beltré. Beltré was a Gold Glove-winning third baseman with a potent bat. His role was to provide offensive production and play solid defense at third base. In Game 6, Beltré went 1-for-4 with a walk. His contributions were essential in supporting the Rangers' offense and maintaining a strong defensive presence.
Nelson Cruz (RF): Batting fifth and playing right field was Nelson Cruz. Cruz was a power hitter known for his ability to hit home runs and drive in runs. His role was to provide additional offensive firepower and complement the other power hitters in the lineup. In Game 6, Cruz went 1-for-4 with a walk. His offensive contributions were crucial in the Rangers' efforts to score runs and put pressure on the Cardinals' pitching staff.
Mike Napoli (C): Batting sixth and catching was Mike Napoli. Napoli was a strong offensive catcher with the ability to hit for power. His role was to provide offensive production from the catcher position and handle the pitching staff. In Game 6, Napoli went 0-for-4. While his offensive contributions were limited, his defensive skills and ability to manage the pitching staff were important in the Rangers' efforts to control the game.
David Murphy (LF): Batting seventh and playing left field was David Murphy. Murphy was a versatile player with the ability to hit for average and drive in runs. His role was to provide offensive production from the bottom of the order and play solid defense in left field. In Game 6, Murphy went 0-for-3. While his offensive contributions were limited, his defensive versatility made him a valuable asset to the Rangers.
Craig Gentry (DH): Batting eighth and serving as the designated hitter was Craig Gentry. Gentry was known for his speed and ability to get on base. His role was to provide a spark at the bottom of the order and create scoring opportunities. In Game 6, Gentry went 1-for-3 with a walk. His speed and ability to get on base were important in the Rangers' efforts to generate offense.
Colby Lewis (P): Starting pitcher Colby Lewis batted ninth. Lewis's role was to provide a quality start and keep the Cardinals' offense in check. While he wasn't known for his hitting, his primary focus was on delivering a strong performance on the mound. In Game 6, Lewis pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs. His performance was solid, and he kept the Rangers in the game. Lewis's ability to pitch under pressure was crucial in the Rangers' efforts to secure a victory.

Strategic Decisions and Impact

The managerial decisions made by Tony La Russa and Ron Washington significantly impacted the game. La Russa's strategic use of his bullpen and his faith in players like David Freese paid dividends. Washington's decision to stick with his closer, Neftalí Feliz, in the ninth inning despite his struggles proved to be a turning point. The Cardinals' resilience and ability to capitalize on the Rangers' mistakes ultimately led to their victory. The Rangers' inability to close out the game, despite being twice within one strike of winning the World Series, highlighted the importance of execution in high-pressure situations.

Conclusion

The Game 6 lineups of the 2011 World Series were filled with talented players who each played a crucial role in the epic contest. The St. Louis Cardinals, with their blend of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance, managed to overcome the Texas Rangers' powerful offense. The strategic decisions made by both managers and the individual performances of key players like David Freese and Josh Hamilton contributed to the game's unforgettable drama. This game remains a testament to the unpredictable nature of baseball and the importance of every player in the lineup. The 2011 World Series Game 6 will forever be remembered as one of the greatest games in baseball history, thanks to the contributions of these remarkable players and their respective lineups.