Cardinals vs. Royals: A Midwest Rivalry Rooted in History and Hope

The St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Royals, two Major League Baseball teams geographically close but historically distinct, engage in a compelling rivalry known as the I-70 Series, or the Show-Me Series, a nod to Missouri’s state nickname.

The roots of this rivalry lie in proximity. The teams are separated by roughly 250 miles, making travel easy for fans and fueling cross-state bragging rights. While not a traditional divisional matchup, the interleague games hold significant weight for supporters of both franchises. The atmosphere is always charged, especially when the stakes are high, such as in the 1985 World Series.

The 1985 World Series, arguably the pinnacle of this rivalry, saw the Royals emerge victorious in seven games. This series remains a contentious point for Cardinals fans, who feel some calls went against them. This victory solidified the Royals’ place in baseball history and added a layer of intensity to all future encounters with the Cardinals.

The Cardinals boast a richer history of success with multiple World Series titles and a consistent presence in the postseason. Known for their passionate fanbase, dubbed “the best fans in baseball,” the Cardinals organization prides itself on tradition and sustained excellence. This legacy often creates a sense of inherent superiority amongst some Cardinals supporters.

The Royals, on the other hand, experienced a long period of struggles following their 1985 triumph. This contributed to an underdog mentality and instilled a fierce loyalty among their fans. Their resurgence in the mid-2010s, culminating in a World Series victory in 2015, reinvigorated the fanbase and added a new chapter to the rivalry. The Royals’ success was built on speed, defense, and timely hitting, a contrasting style compared to the Cardinals’ historically more power-oriented approach.

Beyond the wins and losses, the rivalry represents a microcosm of Missouri’s cultural landscape. St. Louis, with its older, established identity, often contrasts with Kansas City’s more modern and evolving character. This difference is reflected in the fanbases, who represent distinct segments of the state’s population.

While the I-70 Series games are limited due to the interleague schedule, each contest is imbued with extra significance. Players feel the pressure of performing well in front of opposing fans, and the broadcasts are often filled with historical anecdotes and narratives highlighting the rivalry’s most memorable moments.

Ultimately, the Cardinals and Royals rivalry is a testament to the enduring power of regional pride and the captivating drama of baseball. It’s a competition built on shared history, contrasting legacies, and the unwavering hope of capturing the hearts of fans across the Show-Me State.