2011 – The Cardinals win Game 1 of the World Series at home, defeating Texas, 3 – 2. Chris Carpenter pitches six strong innings, his only flaw being Mike Napoli’s two-run homer in the 5th. A single by pinch-hitter Allen Craig off Alexi Ogando breaks the 2 – 2 tie in the 6th, and the Cards benefit from another strong collective performance by their bullpen, with five relievers combining to shut out the Rangers over the last three frames.