JUPITER, Fla. -- The Cardinals paid tribute to long-time coach Dave Ricketts, who died last July 13 of renal cancer, on Saturday with a special ceremony prior to the team's Grapefruit League game against the Atlanta Braves.

Staffers of the Cardinals organization -- including chairman William DeWitt Jr. -- and all players gathered behind Roger Dean Stadium, where the indoor batting cages were dedicated in Ricketts' name. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Ricketts' wife, Barbara, was presented a commemorative catcher's mitt as a symbol of her late husband's contributions to the team.

"He understood what it took to be successful," DeWitt said. "He epitomized the Cardinals' philosophy, which has produced tremendous results. He is sorely missed."

The plaque unveiled at the entrance to the batting cages reads: "For 35 years (1974-2008) Dave Ricketts tutored every catcher in the St. Louis Cardinals' organization. His tireless work ethic and mastery of the fundamentals of the catcher position left an indelible mark on countless athletes, from rookies to Rawlings Gold Glove winners such as Tom Pagnozzi, Mike Matheny and Yadier Molina. Dave Ricketts' passion for the great game of baseball and for the men he taught will never be forgotten."

Manager Tony La Russa and coach Jose Oquendo also spoke to the gathering, which also included family members and Hall of Famer Lou Brock.

"Davey was one of the greatest," Oquendo said. "He taught me a lot about how to teach."

Said La Russa: "Dave Ricketts was one of those men who is identified as teaching the Cardinal way and their success over the years."