2004 NLDS Game 3 vs Cardinals
A defiant road win that propelled Houston toward the National League Championship Series.
The 2004 National League Division Series marked a critical chapter in the Houston Astros' pursuit of their first pennant. Game 3 against the St. Louis Cardinals stands out as a pivotal road victory that shifted momentum within the intense Central division rivalry. This match showcased the resilience of an Astros squad transitioning from the Bagwell-Biggio era into a new championship window.
- Series
- 2004 National League Division Series
- Opponent
- St. Louis Cardinals
- Venue
- Busch Stadium II (St. Louis)
- Outcome
- Astros Victory
- Key Players
- Craig Biggio, Lance Berkman, Roger Clemens
- Series Result
- Houston won 3-1
Lore & Background
The atmosphere during this series was electric, fueled by the high stakes of playoff baseball and the legacy of both franchises. Fans in St. Louis expected their home team to dominate, but the Astros' pitching and timely hitting silenced the crowd. This victory cemented the memory of a resilient roster that refused to fold under pressure on the road.
In Their Own Story
The lights hummed overhead at Busch Stadium as the night air grew crisp. In the dugout, the tension was palpable; one slip could send them home early. A roar erupted from the visiting section when the runner crossed home plate, a defiant sound against the sea of red and white. For that moment, Houston belonged to the field.
Reader's Guide
This match occurred during the 2004 NLDS, a best-of-five series where Houston held home-field advantage but faced a tough test in St. Louis. Game 3 was crucial because it allowed the Astros to take a 2-1 lead in the series while playing away from Enron Field. The victory demonstrated the team's depth and ability to perform under playoff pressure on neutral or hostile territory. It is remembered as a turning point that gave Houston the momentum needed to clinch the series shortly after, advancing them to the NLCS where they would face the San Francisco Giants.
Did You Know?
- The stadium in Houston was still known as Enron Field during this 2004 postseason run before becoming Minute Maid Park.
- Roger Clemens joined the Astros for this season, bringing his legendary Cy Young pedigree to the playoff rotation.
- Craig Biggio continued his Hall of Fame career by contributing significantly with both bat and glove throughout the series.