Forty Years Ago, Willie McGee Led the Cardinals to a National League Pennant with His Unmatched Talent and Humble Demeanor
In the world of baseball, there are few players who can truly be considered legends. But one name that undoubtedly belongs on that list is Willie McGee. Forty years ago, McGee was at the forefront of a National League pennant-winning club that captivated fans with its fast-paced, high-energy style of play. And yet, somehow, McGee managed to remain in the background.
It may seem impossible, but in 1985, McGee did just that. Despite his incredible talent and contributions to the team, he never sought the spotlight or craved attention. Instead, he let his performance on the field speak for itself.
Now, at the age of 66, McGee still holds onto those same humble sensibilities. As a member of the Cardinals Hall of Fame, he continues to inspire and amaze with his unwavering dedication to the game.
Former Cardinals third baseman Terry Pendleton, who himself won an MVP with the Atlanta Braves in 1991, has nothing but praise for McGee. Without hesitation, Pendleton declares that he has never seen anyone play better over the course of a single season than McGee did in 1985.
It’s a testament to McGee’s talent and character that even his fellow players recognize and admire his greatness. And forty years later, his legacy continues to live on in the hearts of Cardinals fans everywhere.
Willie McGee: The Silent MVP of the 1985 Cardinals
Forty years ago, Willie McGee was the driving force behind the National League pennant-winning Cardinals team. Despite his superstar performances, McGee managed to remain in the background, a feat that seems impossible in today’s media-driven world. But in 1985, McGee did just that, quietly leading his team to victory and earning the NL Most Valuable Player award.
The Quiet Dominance of Willie McGee
At age 66, McGee still holds onto his humble sensibilities, a trait that former teammate and fellow MVP Terry Pendleton admires. In a recent interview, Pendleton praised McGee’s performance in 1985, stating that he had never seen anyone play better in a single season. And yet, McGee’s accomplishments went largely unnoticed, with many people unaware that he had even won the MVP award.
A Season of Excellence
That year, McGee led the NL in batting average, hits, and triples, while also earning a Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, and All-Star selection. He also led the Cardinals in runs scored and stolen bases, solidifying his value to the team. In fact, according to Baseball-Reference.com, McGee’s Wins Above Replacement (WAR) was the highest in the NL, surpassing even power hitters like Dale Murphy and Dave Parker.
A Different Kind of MVP
McGee’s dominance on the field was not measured by home runs, but by his all-around performance and impact on the game. In today’s baseball climate, where home runs and flashy plays often steal the spotlight, it may seem preposterous that a player could win the MVP award with only 10 home runs in a season. But McGee’s style of play, reminiscent of Ichiro Suzuki’s, proved that there is more to the game than just power hitting.
A Legend in the Shadows
Today, McGee serves as an assistant to the president of baseball operations for the Cardinals, still embodying the same humility and quiet determination that defined his playing career. As the 1985 team gathers to celebrate their pennant-winning season, it’s important to remember the silent MVP who played a crucial role in their success. Willie McGee may have stood in the background, but his impact on the game and the Cardinals organization will never be forgotten.
