LaPoint joined the Cardinals in a blockbuster deal that sent
Ted Simmons and Rollie
Fingers to Milwaukee. A finesse pitcher with good control who relied on making batters
hit his pitch, LaPoint had three winning years with the Cardinals. Then, in a series
of rapid moves, he played for seven teams between 1985 and 1989. Popular with his
teammates for his good humor and upbeat attitude, LaPoint was the White Sox' best
starter in 1988 until he was acquired for the stretch run by the Pirates that August.
The following winter he signed with the Yankees as a free agent, but missed most
of 1989 on the DL.
(FO)