Battle of the uniforms: 1976 vs. 1971

A few weeks ago I posited the question: What is the best Cardinals uniform ever?

Well friends, there is only one way to find out: Battle Royale.

So, to determine the best Cardinals uniform ever, I have, with your gracious assistance, created a bracket where each uniform will duke it out until we have a winner.

(Many of you have asked about the alternate jersey the Cardinals debuted in 2013. Don't worry, folks. I have a plan. Trust the system.)

Here is the bracket, updated to reflect the winner of last week’s matchup:

This week, the voting continues with...

This is the tightest competition of the bracket and for an obvious reason: there just isn’t a lot different about these two uniforms.

In 1971 the team ditched the button down uniform for a pullover style top and sans-a-belt pants that were popular of the time. This uniform included a scoop style neckline and simple red and blue stripes along the edges and running down the pant legs as modeled by the lovely Steve Carlton above.

Notable achievements:

• The team finished 90-72, second behind the 97-win Pittsburgh Pirates
• Bob Gibson threw a no-hitter in this uniform on August 14, 1971 against the Pirates
• Joe Torre won the MVP award for his play while wearing this uniform
• Bob Gibson was awarded a Gold Glove in 1971

The 1976 uniform is basically the same as the 1971 with one obvious distinction. The Cardinals debuted their powder blue road uniforms this year. The neckline has also changed from a scoop to v-neck. The hat also features the white stripes across the crown. Modeling this uniform above is relief pitcher Bill Greif.

Notable achievements:

• The team was less successful in this uniform, going 72-90 and finishing fifth in the National League East
• Bill Greif was acquired from the Padres in exchange for Luis Melendez. Greif was out of baseball after the ‘76 season with a career -.9 bWAR. Melendez was out of baseball after the ‘77 season with a career -1.2 bWAR
• 1976 was Red Schoendienst final season as a full-time manager

Vote below for the best!

St. Louis Cardinals Uniform and Team History | Heritage Uniforms and Jerseys

The Evolution of the St. Louis Cardinals Jersey

What is the best Cardinals uniform ever? - A Hunt and Peck | Viva El Birdos

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