The Dexter Fowler appreciation post - A Hunt and Peck

Goodnight, sweet prince.

By lil_scooter93 Feb 9, 2021, 2:00pm EST

Wild Card Round - St Louis Cardinals v San Diego Padres - Game One

On Thursday it was announced — to at least my great surprise — that the Cardinals had traded Dexter Fowler to the Angels. It was a move that made a lot of sense for both Fowler and the Cardinals. Not only is Dexter Fowler is owed a substantial amount of money, but the Cardinals reportedly want to let the kids play which would cut into the veteran’s playing time and Fowler wants to play.

I do not think Fowler would disagree that his time spent with the Cardinals was inconsistent. An average season to start his tenure was, for various reasons, followed up with the worst season of his career in 2018. After that fans were quick to call out the outfielder for more than just his performance on the field, but for various perceived character flaws. It was more than just frustration with a player, it was personal. It was at times meanspirited and just needlessly cruel. His time in St. Louis will always be a bit stained from that to me and while I think the trade is a good move for everyone, I feel disappointed that we were not able to make amends for that.

We cannot change the past, though. So while I wish the world had been a bit kinder and more compassionate, we cannot undo our past mistakes. We can, though, reflect back and appreciate everything Dexter Fowler brought to the Cardinals. He brought excitement with his signing, he brought charisma and a brilliant smile. His family moved to St. Louis and his daughter was born in the 3-1-4. He lived and worked among us and interacted with us. He was able to make the game more fun. And occasionally he made some big plays...