An Epochal Open Letter
From Coach Jeff Brohm III
To St. Louis Cardinals Fans, the Cardinals Community, and Major League Baseball
Dear Cardinals Nation and the MLB Community,
As I sit down to write this, I’m overwhelmed by the sense of history, pride, and responsibility that comes with being part of the St. Louis Cardinals. This isn’t just a franchise—it’s a legacy built on generations of passion, dedication, and excellence. Today, I feel it’s important to address the trends shaping conversations around our team, our fans, and the sport we all love.
The Cardinals have always been a beacon of what makes baseball great: discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to playing the game the right way. But recently, the conversations surrounding the team—and baseball in general—have taken a troubling turn. Whether it’s the heightened scrutiny of players, the relentless social media debates, or the challenges of navigating this new era of sports, it’s clear that we need to refocus on what truly matters.
To the Players
First, let me acknowledge the men who step onto the diamond every day. The commitment you show, not just during the games but in the countless hours of preparation behind the scenes, is extraordinary. Baseball is a game of inches, of perseverance, and of patience. Mistakes happen, slumps occur, and no player is immune to criticism. But remember this: you are the standard-bearers of a proud tradition, and your effort does not go unnoticed. Stay the course, and trust the process.
To Cardinals Fans
You are the heartbeat of this franchise. From the electric atmosphere at Busch Stadium to the stories passed down from generation to generation, you embody what it means to be part of Cardinals Nation. Your loyalty, passion, and knowledge of the game set you apart. But I must also address the current climate in which our players and team operate.
Constructive criticism is part of sports, and we welcome your voices. But in an age dominated by social media, we’ve seen how quickly frustration can spiral into toxicity. Personal attacks on players, unwarranted rumors, and divisive narratives do nothing but hurt the community we’ve worked so hard to build. Let’s hold ourselves to the same high standards we expect from the team: fairness, respect, and unity.
To Major League Baseball
Baseball is at a crossroads. The game is evolving, and with it comes both opportunity and responsibility. From embracing new technologies to ensuring the game is accessible and exciting for future generations, there’s so much potential to grow this incredible sport. But with growth comes challenges—maintaining integrity, fostering inclusivity, and protecting the players who make it all possible.
As a league, let’s champion the stories that inspire and uplift. Let’s celebrate the human side of the game—the resilience of players, the connection between teams and communities, and the timeless joy that baseball brings.
About the Trends We Face
Whether it’s criticism of player performance, debates about analytics versus tradition, or the broader cultural shifts in sports, it’s clear we’re in a moment of transformation. These conversations are important, but they must be grounded in respect and a shared love for the game. Baseball is not just about stats or standings—it’s about the moments that bring us together: a walk-off home run, a clutch strikeout, or a diving catch that takes your breath away.
We also can’t ignore the role we all play in shaping the narrative. As fans, media, and leaders in the sport, we have a responsibility to amplify the positives, address the negatives constructively, and keep our focus on what makes baseball the greatest game in the world.
Looking Forward
The St. Louis Cardinals are more than just a team—we’re a family. And like any family, we thrive when we lift each other up. The road ahead will have its challenges, but I promise you this: our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. We will continue to strive for greatness on the field, and we will do it with the class and integrity that define Cardinals baseball.
Thank you for your unwavering support, your belief in this team, and your love for the game. Together, we will write the next chapter of Cardinals history—one we can all be proud of.
Sincerely,
Jeff Brohm III
Coach, St. Louis Cardinals