44. Bill Sherdel

Before the modern bullpen car or specialized late-inning relievers became common, Bill Sherdel was redefining pitching strategies in St. Louis. Joining in 1918, this small left-hander, known as "Wee Willie," had a fourteen-year career characterized by remarkable resilience and adaptability. Although he didn't throw as fast as the league’s top pitchers, his effective slowball and quick delivery allowed him to serve as a versatile pitcher capable of calming rallies in the seventh inning or pitching a complete game just two days later.

Sherdel spent nearly his entire career with the Cardinals, accumulating an impressive statistical record. As a consistent and reliable figure during multiple periods of Redbirds baseball, he quietly built a resume that places him among the franchise’s top pitchers. Today, he ranks in the top five in franchise history for wins (153), games pitched (465), and innings pitched (2,450.2), with his 242 starts just outside that group. His 153 wins still stand as the franchise record for most wins by a left-handed pitcher.

Although he was never the most flashy pitcher in the rotation, his unconventional deployment gave him an advantage that typical starters lacked. Managed by Branch Rickey, Sherdel often served as the team’s go-to reliever in critical moments. He led the National League in saves three times—in 1920, 1927, and 1928. While the official save totals from the 1920s are modest and often single digits, leading the league in this category three times highlights his reliability and trustworthiness in high-pressure, decisive situations.

His dependability was key to the franchise's early success in modern times. Sherdel played a vital role in winning the 1926 World Series, pitching significant innings and delivering two outstanding games in the Fall Classic against the New York Yankees. Despite facing some unlucky losses on the big stage, his readiness to take the mound in any situation helped lead the Cardinals to victory. He wasn't an overpowering star who relied on raw intimidation but a classic, adaptable workhorse whose durability helped build a path to championships.

Sherdel made 465 appearances (242 starts). He compiled a 153–131 record with a 3.64 ERA, throwing 2,450.2 innings over 14 seasons.