ST. LOUIS CARDINALS MASCOT: FREDBIRD
Fredbird at bat
Spring time in St. Louis can mean only one thing, it’s time for Cardinal baseball! The fun atmosphere, the tasty ballpark food and the antics of everyone’s favorite mascot, Fredbird! Whether he is visiting children in the hospital or “beaking” fans in the seats, Fredbird plays hard and works even harder. “I have been to every home game since I was born!” he says, “I love to hang out and spend most of my time at the ballpark, I mean who wouldn’t want to be around this beautiful place?” That time averages out to about 81 home games a season. And Cardinal fans wouldn’t have it any other way.
You can sense when he enters your section at Busch Stadium by the laughter of the crowd. Young or old, people clamor to see him and if they’re lucky, take a picture. Not only does Fredbird work the games, he also puts in about 800 outside appearances a year at company functions, schools and private events. But no matter the weather or if the Cards win or lose, Fredbird always looks great in his trademark custom jersey and oversize hat. He gives Hantastic readers the inside scoop:
Hantastic:
Let’s talk logistics…you must have a workout schedule to stay in such great shape. I get tired just watching you run around on top of the dugout! I know you spend most of your time at the ballpark, but what are some of your favorite St. Louis places to visit?
Fredbird:
The only time that I work out is during ballgames and appearances, unless you consider eating an exercise! I was born in April 1979 and love going to Cardinal games. Ted Drews is a favorite St. Louis place! And I do all my grocery shopping at Schnucks. I love to eat at the Pasta House (or basically anywhere that has food.) I also enjoy catching a show at the Muny, Peabody Opera House, and at The Fox. During the off season you might catch me taking in a Blues or Rams game. But most of my time is spent here at Busch Stadium.
Fredbird at his favorite place
Hantastic:
Major League Baseball has around 40 different mascots. Is there any rivalry between you guys? I mean, you’re the best, right? It’s a high profile job, so I bet you have met some pretty famous people. Any favorites?
Fredbird:
There are no rivalries among any of the MLB mascots. In fact, we are all really close friends. But honestly, I am the best! I do get to meet lots of cool people, some of my favorite celebrities include Steven Tyler, Scott Bakula and Nelly.
Nelly Night at Busch Stadium
Hantastic:
I’d like to know about your wardrobe. Is that an official MLB uniform? Where is it made? I know it includes a hat, jersey, gloves and of course, those big shoes! Are there some occasions where you wear a different outfit?
Fredbird:
All of my outfits are made just for me. My jerseys are made by Majestic, which is the same company that makes the Cardinal player jerseys. Fiberworks is a company out of Phoenix, AZ that makes my shoes, hats, and any clothes that you see me in. I do have other special occasion outfits such as: “Uncle Sam”, army, overalls, jeans, tux, etc… Most those outfits are worn here at the stadium on special days like 4th of July.
Fredbird as “Uncle Sam”
Hantastic:
Every time you’re out, people just light up when they see you! You’re in an enviable position of having a job that can make someone’s day a little better. What’s the best part of being the Cardinals mascot?
Fredbird:
The best part about being the Cardinals mascot is seeing the fans smile. I know I did my job if I see people smile!
