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- When Carl joined the Tampa Bay organization, he became one of six potential college quarterbacks in the minor-league system. The others were Kenny Kelly (Miami), Doug Johnson (Florida), Jason Standridge (Auburn), Marquis Roberts (Fresno State) and Doug Waechter (South Florida).
- During Carl’s stint on Team USA in 2001, he became friends with Reds outfielder Austin Kearns.
- Carl blamed his so-so 2001 season on not working out hard enough in the off-season. He has vowed never to make that mistake again.
- Carl’s first pro at bat was an infield chopper that he beat out by a full stride. From that day on, he has always batted leadoff.
- Carl led AL rookies in triples in 2002, despite playing only half a season. He was leading all minor leaguers in triples when he was called up.
- In 2003, Carl’s 55 stolen bases made him the first Devil Ray to lead the league in an offensive category.
- Carl was the fourth-youngest player in history to win a stolen base title. Only Ty Cobb, Rickey Henderson and Tim Raines were younger.
- Upon Carl’s return to Houston for the 2004 All-Star Game, he was honored at City Hall by Mayor Bill White.
- Carl moved his home from Houston to Phoenix in 2004 so he could workout more frequently with trainer Mark Verstegen, whose other clients include Curt Schilling and Nomar Garciaparra.
- Carl is only they 8th American Leaguer to club a walk-off homer on Opening Day.
- Carl no longer
uses weights in his off-season training. He prefers elastic bands so
as not to bulk up. If he were still playing football, he estimates his
weight would be over 230 pounds.
Austin Kearns, 2002
Bowman
Ty Cobb playing
card