Four years ago today the Cincinnati Reds decided to “kick the tires” on an outfielder that has shown glimpses of power in years past; however, hadn’t eclipsed 18 home runs in any of his previous four years.
Our player began his 12-year Major League career with the Texas Rangers in 2002; however, over his first four seasons he would only see 365 official plate appearances–hitting 21 HRs and driving in 70 runs–between Texas and his second club, the Cleveland Indians. It wasn’t until he signed as a free agent with the St. Louis Cardinals that his career took off.