Failure is an option

We tend to cast a cold eye on people who fail. They weren't up to the task, they had not business being there, they were in over their heads. We sometimes welcome them back, but only after they've paid some penance. Sometimes, they don't come back at all.

But Rick Ankiel did. A couple of years ago, he left St. Louis unable to pitch for the Cardinals. He couldn't get the ball over the plate. It's one thing to fail, but to do so on such a public stage can wreck one's confidence. Injury further stalled any comeback. Add that his father was sent to federal prison for a drug conviction, and you might want to just give up. But he didn't. He returned to the minor leagues, converted to the outfield, and started the long road back. The Cardinals never gave up on him, and last night, he started for the big-league team. And hit a three-run homer. Nobody ever since the journey would be easy.