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.
