Considered one of the game's top defensive catchers, Mike shuts down the opponent's running game, is very adept at blocking balls in the dirt and is an excellent handler of pitchers. While many teams struggle to find one top-flight receiver, the Cardinals are fortunate to have two in Mike and Eli Marrero. Eli is the better hitter, but Mike is so strong defensively that he made more starts at the position in 2001 (117 to 45). Mike threw out 48.3 percent of would-be base-stealers (28 of 58) and had just four errors and six passed balls.

Some say the Cardinals' postseason chances in 2000 were doomed the minute Mike cut himself in a household accident on the eve of the playoffs. The injury occurred on September 29 when he severed two flexor tendons and a nerve in his right ring finger while examining a hunting knife he had received as a birthday gift. Mike underwent immediate surgery and missed the entire postseason.

Mike led the majors in 2000 by throwing out a remarkable 52.7 percent of would-be base-stealers (49 of 93). He started 117 games behind the plate, picked off three runners and ranked third among National League catchers in fielding percentage (.994). Mike also had a good year with the bat, hitting a career-high .261, with six homers, 22 doubles and 47 RBI. Nearly half (21 of 47) of those RBI came with two outs. Mike grew up in the Columbus, Ohio area and attended the University of Michigan where he was co-captain of the baseball team. He played for the Milwaukee Brewers (1994-98) and Toronto Blue Jays (1999) before coming to St. Louis.