Rafael Antonio Furcal (born October 24, 1977 in Loma de Cabrera, Dominican Republic), is a Major League Baseball shortstop who is currently with the St. Louis Cardinals.

Furcal broke into the major leagues in 2000, jumping from Class A ball because of an injury to current Braves shortstop, Walt Weiss. He has been with the Cardinals since a trade in July of 2011.

On March 7, 2013 the Cardinals announced that Furcal would undergo Tommy John surgery and has missed all of the 2013 baseball season.

Career highlights and achievements:

• NL Rookie of the Year Award winner with the Atlanta Braves(2000)


• 3× All-Star (2003, 2010, 2012)


• World Series champion (2011)


• Roy Campanella award winner (2006); given to the LADodger player who best exemplifies the spirit and leadership of the late Hall of Fame catcher. The award was voted on by only his teammates.


• Tied NL lead in triples (2003)


• Unassisted triple play, August 10, 2003