Tom Pagnozzi is a former Major League Baseball catcher who played for the St. Louis Cardinals for his entire career. He was known for his strong defensive skills and ability to handle pitchers. Pagnozzi was drafted by the Cardinals in 1983 and made his debut in 1987. He quickly established himself as a reliable catcher, earning a Gold Glove award in 1992.
Pagnozzi was a consistent performer throughout his career, hitting .253 with 44 home runs and 626 RBIs. He was also known for his durability, playing in over 100 games in eight of his 11 seasons. Pagnozzi was a fan favorite in St. Louis, known for his hard work and dedication to the team.
Despite his success, Pagnozzi's career was not without its challenges. He suffered a serious knee injury in 1995 that forced him to miss most of the season. He also struggled with injuries in his later years, leading to his retirement in 1998.
After retiring from baseball, Pagnozzi remained involved in the sport. He worked as a coach and instructor, helping to develop young players. He also started a foundation to support children with disabilities, inspired by his son who has Down syndrome.
Overall, Tom Pagnozzi had a successful career as a catcher for the St. Louis Cardinals. He was known for his strong defensive skills, consistent performance, and dedication to the team. Despite facing challenges and injuries, he remained a fan favorite and continued to contribute to the sport after his retirement.
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