The Cardinals should retire Adam Wainwright's No. 50

Unfortunately, the existing standard, which is silly, makes it unlikely that the freshly minted 200-game winner will receive such an honor

Adam Wainwright’s 200th win was what it should’ve been, what it needed to be. After a season of struggles that so often verged on the humiliating, the stalwart right-hander dizzied the Brewers with a vintage mix of speeds and angles and offerings – a connoisseur’s outing, for one last time. 

Next comes, perhaps, a trip to the plate during the final home series of the season, for purposes of feting and farewell. Beyond that, though, it’s uncertain. Waino is a franchise legend, and his affable nature and popularity ensure that he’s a legend for reasons that go beyond his substantial excellence on the mound. No doubt, a red jacket and a spot in the Cardinals’ Hall of Fame are in the offing, but he merits more than that. His No. 50 should be retired.