One of our favorite 2011 post-season heroes celebrates a birthday today, while another celebrates tomorrow.

And what better way to honor the day Chris Carpenter turns 37 than by stealing the idea of our Aerys Designated Hotter Friday feature? Especially since we don’t even know when we’ll have a chance to see No. 29 back out on the pitcher’s mound again. (And although there’s not much new to report, Jenifer Langosch did provide an update about CC yesterday.)

First, let us pause and fondly remember Nick Punto’s work as a Cardinal once again … and an amazing performance in Game 5 of the NLDS.

(Hmmm, whatever happened to that torn jersey?)

Next is our second-favorite picture from the post-season — the memorable dive into first base in Game 1 of the World Series.

Did someone say “Designated Hotter”?

Hopefully we’ll have the chance to see him do this again soon, as he was in February.

And another spring training 2012 pic …

Chris is a good family man, as we all remember his kids with him during the World Series celebration.

And he also is respectful of Cardinals’ history, as he demonstrated during the home opener two weeks ago. (Photo courtesy of @stanthemaninc on Twitter.)

Speaking of Hall of Famers, Chris shares a birthday with two Cardinals greats who are in Cooperstown: Rogers Hornsby, born on this day in 1896, and Enos Slaughter, born in 1916. And while CC won’t be joining them in the Hall of Fame, he will always be a part of Cardinals World Series history like they are — and like tomorrow’s birthday boy, David Freese.

So happy birthday, Chris Carpenter! Wishing you much happiness and good health in the year ahead!

Christine Coleman is the senior St. Louis Cardinals reporter for Aaron Miles’ Fastball. Follow her on Twitter, @CColeman802, or email aaronmilesfastball@gmail.com. Also follow @AMilesFastball for the latest updates.