When the Cardinals acquired Adam Wainwright from the Braves for the oft-injured JD Drew, we knew we were getting a top talent. However, after 3 years of toiling in the minors as a starting pitcher, Adam finally made it to the bigs as a middle reliever...until Isringhausen went down with a hip injury last year. To say that Adam filled in nicely is an understaement. In fact, many Cards fans were tantalized by the thought of Adam in a permanent closing role - waving good bye to the dramatic and erratic Izzy. Whatever happens with him in his career, he will best be remembered for two pitches - one to Carols Beltran to close the '06 NLCS and one to Brandon Inge to seal the World Series.
Well, this Spring, Adam has been tagged as the Card's fourth starter behind Carpenter, Wells, and Looper...preceding Anthony Reyes, another guy who should impress this year. His rookie cards and early autographs are in demand. Although this is not the most desired Wainwright "rookie" out there, it is branded with the new MLBPA ROOKIE logo...it is a 2006 Topps Finest Gold refractor numbered 20/49. You know I have my fingers crossed for Adam to be successful this year. With the way he has performed in Florida this spring, he is well on his way to winning 15+games...as long as his body holds up.
