It’s been quite a while since we’ve had a Matheny Monday post, so there’s no better time to continue the tradition than right now.

So here you go — some pictures of Cardinals manager Mike Matheny (and a couple other sadly-no-longer Cardinals) for a nice and easy way to begin your week.

 

It’s Mike with a beard, when he was in Springfield, Ill., in November. (Photo: The State Journal-Register.)

 

It’s Playoff Mike …

 

… as is this. Although his expression certainly looks like the pic was taken after a loss (which just makes you want to hug him, right?)

 

Not sure when this is from, but you probably don’t care …

 

Back to Playoff Mike again, the victory version.

 

And, to close out the Matheny section of photos, one of our favorites — from all the way back in spring training. Now a tribute to two Cardinals who are moving on …

 

Bye, K-Lo — Tara let us know her feelings about you last Monday.

 

Thank you for all you did throughout your Cardinal career.

 

There was much celebration involved …

 

… but this will always be our favorite moment.

 

Then there’s Lance Berkman. Oh, LB, how we grew to love you after hating you for all those years you were an Astro …

 

You’ll always have a place in our heart for what you did in October 2011 — plus you might have had the best playoff beard of anyone. (But what’s with the toothpick? A Dusty Baker imitation?)

 

You knew how to keep things light …

 

… especially in spring training (because we know you started this) …

 

And, on behalf of the LB Fan Club, we appreciate all you did in your two-year Cardinals career. All the best to you and to K-Lo.

Happy Monday! (It’s better already, isn’t it?)


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.