30. 2006 St. Louis Cardinals
Despite finishing atop the National League Central, the 2006 St. Louis Cardinals were a middling squad that went 83–78. Conversely, once autumn arrived, the Cardinals soared and grabbed the franchise’s 10th Commissioner’s Trophy. The Cardinals conquered the heavily favored San Diego Padres and New York Mets to win their 17th National League pennant. Somewhat astoundingly, St. Louis then trounced the Detroit Tigers in five games to capture the crown. Shortstop David Eckstein collected MVP accolades.