Ronnie Belliard | Dreadlocks, Diving Plays, and a Ring

TL;DR

Ronnie Belliard played a crucial role in the St. Louis Cardinals' 2006 World Series victory after being acquired mid-season. His standout performance included a memorable diving play in the NLDS, showcasing his impact despite modest regular-season stats.

Key points

Ronnie Belliard was acquired by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2006.
He played a key role in the team's World Series victory.
Belliard made a memorable diving play in the NLDS.
His regular-season performance was modest but impactful in October.
He was an 8th-round pick and became a 2004 All-Star.

Mentioned in this story

Ronnie BelliardJim Edmonds

St. Louis CardinalsNew York Mets2006 World SeriesNLDS

Ronnie Belliard of St. Louis forces out Shawn Green during game 3 of the NLCS between the New York Mets and St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Missouri on October 14, 2006. St. Louis won 5-0 to take a 2 games to 1 lead in the series. (Photo by G. N. Lowrance/Getty Images) | Getty Images The trade deadline is where championships are often won—but not always by the names on the front of the jersey. In this week’s edition of Random Cardinal of the Week, Jim Plaza dives into the short but legendary St. Louis stint of second baseman Ronnie Belliard. Acquired at the 2006 deadline for Hector Luna, Belliard didn’t arrive with the fanfare of a Scott Rolen or a Matt Holliday. In fact, his regular-season numbers in St. Louis were modest at best. But when the lights got bright in October, “Belly” turned into an absolute force. In this episode, we discuss: Belliard’s journey from an 8th-round pick to a 2004 All-Star. The “under the radar” trade that stabilized a sliding 2004-2005 powerhouse in transition. The Play: The diving stop in Game 1 of the NLDS that Jim Edmonds says “lifted the team.” How an 83-win team—and a 3-month rental—defied the odds to become World Series Champions. Whether you remember him for the flowing dreads or the clutch glove, Ronnie Belliard is a vital piece of the 2006 trophy run. YouTube:

Q&A

What was Ronnie Belliard's role in the 2006 World Series?

Ronnie Belliard was a key player for the St. Louis Cardinals, contributing significantly during the postseason, particularly with a memorable diving play in the NLDS.

How did the trade for Ronnie Belliard impact the Cardinals' season?

The trade for Ronnie Belliard helped stabilize the Cardinals during a transitional period, ultimately contributing to their success in winning the World Series.

What were Ronnie Belliard's regular-season stats with the Cardinals in 2006?

Ronnie Belliard's regular-season stats with the Cardinals were modest, but he excelled in the postseason, proving to be a clutch performer.