Meeting the Texas Rangers in the World Series, Carpenter started Game 1. The Cardinals prevailed, 3–2, and he earned the decision. By winning his eighth career postseason game as a Cardinal, he surpassed Gibson for the all-time franchise lead. Carpenter also pitched Games 5 and Game 7. He completed six innings of the seventh game on three days rest, leading the Cardinals to a 6–2 win and his second career World Series win. It was also the third clincher of the season he pitched and won. His overall 2011 postseason totals included a 4–0 record and 3.30 ERA.