So Taguchi

So Taguchi

How So Taguchi became the Cardinals’ first Japanese-born player

Walt Jocketty wasn’t quite sure what he was purchasing when the Cardinals announced the signing of their first Japanese-born player, 32-year-old outfielder So Taguchi, to a three-year contract in January 2002. After all, Jocketty had never even seen the 10-year veteran of the Japan Pacific League play. Neither had Tony La Russa. Instead, the Cardinals

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Rick Ankiel

August 9, 2007: Rick Ankiel homers in his return to the majors – as an outfielder

When Rick Ankiel arrived at Busch Stadium III on August 9, 2007, it had been almost seven years since he’d thrown five wild pitches in Game 1 of the National League Division Series and tied a 110-year-old record. It had been almost three years since he’d been in the majors, and 2 ½ years since

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