He was a late bloomer, becoming Boston's starter at age 31, and rather than employ more traditional goaltending techniques (the butterfly style, for instance), Thomas relied on his athleticism and aggressiveness to make saves, using whatever body part happened to be handy to stop the puck.

WSJ: The NHL's Most Mysterious Man

Rookie John Gast was the first Cardinals' lefty starter to make his debut as a starter since Ankiel broke in at age 20 in August 1999 and the first to win in his debut since Allen Watson beat the Braves on July 8, 1993.

WSJ: Cardinals get to Mets bullpen in 4-2 win

Hughes made the majors at age 21 in 2007 as a starter, but blossomed in relief in 2009.

WSJ: Hope Springs Eternal for Hughes's Fastball