Don Ford
January 3, 2005
Mabry is back for 05
By Don Ford
Mabry coming to John A Logan College, Sunday January 9th
John Mabry was an important part of the St. Louis Cardinals run to the World Series in 2004. This off-season he was resigned by the Cardinals to come back for the 2005 campaign.
Mabry is a versatile player who can play Left Field, Right Field, First Base, and Third Base. Given Cardinals Manager Tony LaRussa’s appreciation for veteran players who can fill multiple roles, Mabry figures to be a big part of the Cardinals quest to defend their National League championship in 2005.
So what can we expect to see from Mabry this season? Hopefully, a continuation of his numbers form last year, a banner year in his 11 year career.
Mabry hit .296 with 13HR 40RBI in ONLY 240 at bats last year.
John should get at least as many at bats this coming season figuring that Larry Walker has had over 500 at bats only twice in his career (1992, 1997) and Reggie Sanders has only topped 500 at bats once (2002).
When Albert Pujols or Scott Rolen take a rare day off or miss time due to injury (both players had off-season surgery) Mabry will be there to step in as a solid replacement.
