— In a move that has ignited both nostalgia and deep appreciation across Cardinals Nation, team owner William Orville DeWitt Jr. has officially approved a monumental $5.6 million project to erect a statue of Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith outside Busch Stadium. The tribute, long hoped for by fans and former players alike, is set to celebrate not just a baseball icon but a symbol of excellence, showmanship, and leadership in St. Louis Cardinals history.
The statue will be placed near the main plaza entrance at Ballpark Village, a location chosen to give the “Wizard of Oz” the visibility and reverence his career commands. Sculpted by a world-renowned artist with input from Smith himself and his family, the statue will depict his iconic backflip—a nod to the athleticism, flair, and joy he brought to the game.
A Legacy Cast in Bronze
Ozzie Smith, who played for the Cardinals from 1982 to 1996, was more than just a shortstop. He was a defensive genius, a 15-time All-Star, 13-time Gold Glove winner, and an integral part of the 1982 World Series championship team. Known for redefining the shortstop position with his range, grace, and lightning-quick reflexes, Smith became a fan favorite and an enduring symbol of what it means to be a Cardinal.
DeWitt Jr., who has been at the helm of the franchise since 1995, said in a press statement:
“Ozzie Smith is a once-in-a-lifetime talent whose impact on this organization and this city goes far beyond numbers or awards. His commitment to excellence and his love for the game lifted this franchise to another level. This statue will ensure that his legacy will be seen, felt, and remembered by every generation that walks through Busch Stadium.”
More Than Just a Baseball Player
The decision to honor Smith comes as part of a larger initiative by the Cardinals to reconnect with their historic roots and spotlight the players who shaped the franchise’s rich identity. Smith has remained active in the St. Louis community since his retirement, supporting youth baseball initiatives, promoting physical fitness, and giving back through the Ozzie Smith Charitable Foundation.
“This is overwhelming in the most beautiful way,” Smith said in an emotional response to the announcement. “To be immortalized outside Busch Stadium, where I shared so many unforgettable moments with the fans, is something I could have never imagined. I’m deeply honored, and I hope this statue inspires every kid who dreams of playing in the big leagues.”
A Ceremony to Remember
The unveiling is scheduled for the opening weekend of the 2026 season, marking the 30th anniversary of Smith’s final season. The event is expected to draw thousands of fans, former teammates, and Hall of Famers, with plans already underway for a week-long celebration of Smith’s career. Special merchandise, commemorative tickets, and a museum exhibit on his life and career will accompany the unveiling.
Fans React with Joy
Fans on social media and across the city have already begun sharing their excitement. One post from a longtime season-ticket holder read:
“Ozzie Smith IS St. Louis baseball. This is long overdue. Thank you, Mr. DeWitt, for doing what every Cardinals fan has dreamed of.”
In an era where modern baseball often seems detached from its roots, the Cardinals are sending a powerful message: heroes of the past still matter, and their stories will continue to shape the soul of the sport.
As the countdown begins for the unveiling of the statue, one thing is certain—Ozzie Smith’s legacy will no longer just be told through highlight reels and Hall of Fame plaques. It will stand tall, proud, and permanent outside Busch Stadium, where generations can remember the magic of the Wizard and the era he helped define.
