the 2006 NLCS. In September 2005, Looper underwent shoulder surgery to repair a blown AC joint. This, in addition to the emergence of Aaron Heilman and acquisition by the Mets of other relief pitchers, kept the Mets from picking up his $5 million option for 2006. St. Louis Cardinals (second stint) On December 15, 2005, Looper signed a three-year, $13.5M contract with the Cardinals to set up star closer and former Met Jason Isringhausen. He was part of the 2006 World Series winning St. Louis Cardinals team. Primarily an eighth inning setup man, Looper posted a 9-3 record as the team's bullpen wins leader. Beginning in the 2007 season Looper became a starting pitcher for the first time in his major league career. Before the season began, Looper stated that his goal was to reach 200 innings pitched in the season. In his first season as a starter, Looper reached career highs in wins (12), innings pitched (175), and strikeouts (84) in 30 starts (31 total appearances). Milwaukee Brewers On October 30, , Looper filed for free agency. On February 12, , Looper signed a one-year deal with an option for 2010 with the Milwaukee Brewers. Although Looper had a 14–7 record in 2009, he led the major leagues by allowing 113 earned runs. After the season the Brewers did not pick up the option on Looper for 2010, making him a free agent. Retirement After not pitching in the 2010 season, Looper was a non-roster invitee of the Chicago Cubs to spring training as a candidate to be either a starter or reliever on the team. Looper had stated that the Cubs were the only team he would attempt a comeback with. However, on March 25, Looper was informed he would not make the opening day roster, and he retired. References External links 1974 births Living people People from Weatherford, Oklahoma Baseball players from Oklahoma Major League Baseball pitchers St. Louis Cardinals players Florida Marlins players New York Mets players Milwaukee Brewers players Baseball players at the 1996 Summer Olympics Olympic bronze medalists for the United States in baseball Wichita State Shockers baseball players Cotuit Kettleers players Prince William Cannons players Arkansas Travelers players Memphis Redbirds players Medalists at the 1996 Summer Olympics People from Mangum, Oklahoma People from Palos Heights, Illinois People from Frankfort, Illinois All-American college baseball players