The Unfortunate Injury of Vince Coleman in the 1985 NLCS

Vince Coleman’s Pre-Game Ritual

Who is Vince Coleman?

Vince Coleman was a promising rookie outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, known for his incredible speed on the basepaths. Born in 1961 in Chula Vista, California, Coleman quickly became a fan favorite as he dazzled audiences with his agility and athleticism.

What Happened Before the NLCS?

On October 7, 1985, during the National League Championship Series (NLCS), a routine pre-game stretching session took a devastating turn for Coleman. While preparing for Game 1 against the New York Mets at the iconic Busch Stadium, the rookie's left leg became entrapped in the stadium's automated tarpaulin mechanism. This unfortunate accident resulted in a severe injury that crushed the Cardinals' hopes for a strong postseason.

The Impact of Coleman’s Injury

How Did It Affect the 1985 NLCS?

Coleman’s injury proved to be a pivotal moment in the series. Renowned for his exceptional stealing ability, Coleman was expected to be a key player in stealing bases and scoring runs. When he was unable to participate, the Cardinals lost a significant edge against their competitors, the Mets, in what was expected to be a tightly contested playoff series.

The Legacy of the 1985 NLCS

The Cardinals battled through the NLCS but ultimately fell short, losing to the Mets. Many fans and analysts have since reflected on how different the outcome might have been had Coleman been able to play. His injury overshadowed a series that was intense and memorable, forever marking the 1985 postseason in the annals of baseball history.

Fun Fact

Vince Coleman’s Stealing Record

A little-known fact is that before his injury, Coleman had an astonishing record of stealing bases. In his remarkable rookie season, he stole 110 bases, setting the stage for what could have been a legendary career had the injury not derailed his momentum during the playoffs.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Vince Coleman

For those hoping to dive deeper into the life and career of Vince Coleman, I recommend reading The Baseball Chronicles and Baseball's Greatest Players. These resources provide a rich exploration of major league personalities, including the trials and successes of Coleman.