Graduated in 2000 from Cimarron Memorial High School (Las Vegas) where he excelled in baseball...earned his Associate of Science degree from Dixie State College (St. George, Utah) ...played in the Junior College World Series and was named to the JC World Series All-Tournament Team...enjoys playing golf and the guitar...was married this off-season to his wife, Andrea, with former teammate, pitcher Randy Flores, presiding over the ceremony... resides in St. Louis, Mo.

Spent most of his season in the Cardinals bullpen, but did make six starts...In his six starts went 3-2, 4.91 ERA (29.1 IP/16 ER). The Cards have won 17 of his 24 (.708 win pct.) career games started...In his six starts went 3-2, 4.91 ERA (29.1 IP/16 ER). The Cards have won 17 of his 24 (.708 win pct.) career games started...Played most of the season at St. Louis, but was optioned to Memphis (AAA) following his 6/19 start and recalled on 6/30...Placed on the 15-day DL on 4/28 retroactive to 4/23 with right elbow inflammation. Was on the DL until his start 6/19...Made 2 rehab starts (6/9 & 6/14) at Memphis (AAA) pitching a combined 8.2 innings and allowing eight runs (7 ER)...Was activated from DL on 6/19 and optioned after he made the start vs. KC (5.0 IP, 2R)...Recalled from Memphis 6/30 and worked a then season-high 4.0 IP of relief 7/1 vs. NY...Entered in 1st inn. on 7/9 at PHI after Mulder departed w/shoulder discomfort. Went a season-relief high 4.1 innings and allowed two runs & didn't allow hit until the 4th...Retired 6-straight batters in scoreless 13th & 14th 7/26 at NY to earn his 3rd win in a 10-8, 14-inning Cards victory...Made a start 8/15 at CIN (replacing Carpenter) and posted his 5th win (5.0 IP, 3H, 2 ER)...Made his 6th start of the year in the season's final game, picking up his 6th win (5.0 IP, 3 ER).