Why David Freese is declining induction into St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame

David Freese, who became a St. Louis Cardinals legend with his performance during the 2011 postseason, is declining induction into the team's Hall of Fame.

"This is something that I have given an extreme amount of thought to, humbly, even before the voting process began," Freese, who was initially elected to the Cardinals Hall of Fame via fan vote, said in a statement. "I am aware of the impact I had helping the team bring great memories to the city I grew up in, including the 11th championship, but this honor means more to me.

“I look at who I was during my tenure, and that weighs heavily on me. The Cardinals and the entire city have always had my back in every way. I’m forever grateful to be part of such an amazing organization and fan base then, now and in the future. I’m especially sorry to the fans that took the time to cast their votes."

Freese, who grew up in Missouri, was slated to be inducted into the 2023 class in August, alongside former pitcher Max Lanier and José Oquendo, a longtime Cardinals player-turned-coach. According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Freese told the Cardinals he was "honored" and "humbled" by the fans voting him in, but he turned down the invite because he did not feel "deserving."

"Cardinal Nation is basically the reason why I’ve unfortunately waited so long for this decision and made it more of a headache for so many people," Freese said. "I feel strongly about my decision and understand how people might feel about this. I get it. I’ll wear it. Thank you for always being there for me, and I am excited to be around the Cardinals as we move forward.”

Freese became a World Series legend in 2011 when he hit a game-tying triple to keep the Cardinals' season alive with two outs in the bottom of the ninth of Game 6 against the Texas Rangers. He then won the game with a walk-off home run in the bottom of the 11th. The Cardinals won Game 7, securing their most recent championship, and Freese was named World Series MVP. He was also named NLCS MVP that playoff cycle.

"Although we are disappointed that David has declined to be inducted into our Hall of Fame, we respect his decision and look forward to celebrating his great Cardinals career in other ways going forward," Cardinals president Bill DeWitt III said in a statement. "He is always welcome at Busch Stadium."

Freese, who has been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety during his time playing for the Cardinals, was traded to the Angels after the 2013 season after five years in St. Louis. He also played for the Pirates and Dodgers, his last MLB games coming with L.A. in 2019.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: David Freese declines induction into Cardinals Hall of Fame