Spring training is in full swing for the St. Louis Cardinals, and with it comes an exciting announcement: the 2026 Cardinals Hall of Fame induction ceremony will feature two legendary players, Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina. These two baseball icons are joined by two other fan-favorite outfielders, George Hendrick and Brian Jordan, on the ballot for induction.
Pujols and Molina are beloved by Cardinals fans and are considered shoo-ins for their Hall of Fame induction. Molina, a 19-year veteran of the team, boasts impressive statistics, including 2,226 games played, 2,168 hits, and 408 doubles, all while ranking among the top five in team history. He is also the most decorated catcher in the team's history, with 10 All-Star appearances, nine Gold Glove awards, and four Platinum Glove awards. His contributions to the team's success are undeniable, as he helped secure two World Series titles and four National League pennants, leading the franchise in postseason games (104) and hits (102).
Albert Pujols, another franchise icon, had an exceptional first stint with the Cardinals. He was named the National League Rookie of the Year in 2001 and later became the NL MVP in 2005, 2008, and 2009. Pujols was a key offensive player for the championship teams in 2006 and 2011. Despite playing half of his career with other teams, Pujols still holds the second spot on the Cardinals' all-time list in doubles (469), home runs (469), and runs batted in (1,397). His return to the team in 2022 for a final year and pursuit of 700 home runs was a thrilling addition to the team's history.
Molina and Pujols retired as teammates after the 2022 season, with an emotional on-field ceremony honoring their achievements. Brian Jordan and George Hendrick, both fan-favorites, are also on the ballot. Jordan, a first-round pick in 1988, made his MLB debut in 1992 after a brief NFL career with the Atlanta Falcons. He was a dynamic outfielder, showcasing both speed and power, and had a 20-20 season in 1995. Hendrick, a strong and steady offensive player, drove in the winning run in Game 7 of the 1982 season and hit 122 home runs in 893 games with the Cardinals from 1978 to 1984. Voting for the Hall of Fame induction is open now and will continue until April 17, with the player receiving the most votes set to be enshrined on September 12.
