2011 NLCS Game 5 David Freese Three-Homer Performance

Lore & Background

The narrative of this game is inseparable from the broader context of the 2011 postseason, where the Cardinals would go on to win the World Series against the Texas Rangers. Freese's three home runs in Game 5 provided the emotional and tactical foundation for that eventual championship run. It remains a touchstone for fans, often cited alongside Bob Gibson's pitching or Lou Brock's stealing as one of the definitive moments of franchise history.

Reader's Guide

The Cardinals entered Game 5 down three games to two in the best-of-seven series, facing immediate elimination against the Milwaukee Brewers. The game was tightly contested until the bottom of the seventh inning when David Freese stepped up to bat with runners on base. Freese hit his first home run off pitcher Yovani Gallardo, giving St. Louis a lead. Later in the same inning, he launched a second shot into the left-field seats, extending the advantage and silencing the visiting Brewers fans.

The momentum was undeniable as Freese returned to the plate with two outs. With the bases loaded or runners in scoring position depending on the specific at-bat sequence, Freese delivered his third home run of the night, capping off a historic offensive explosion. This performance secured an 8-2 victory for the Cardinals, forcing a decisive Game 6 and marking one of the most memorable individual nights in postseason history.

Did You Know?

• David Freese became only the second player in MLB history to hit three home runs in a single postseason game.
• Freese's performance included hits off both starting pitcher Yovani Gallardo and reliever Jeff Suppan.
• The Cardinals went on to win Game 6 and eventually the 2011 World Series, with Freese named MVP of both series.
• This game is often referred to as 'Freese Day' by St. Louis fans due to its pivotal role in their championship run.