Ankiel experienced just one full season as an MLB pitcher, in 2000. Despite turning 21 on July 19, he was one of the National League’s better pitchers, going 11-7 with a 3.50 ERA. He struck out 194 batters in 175 innings over 30 starts. He finished second in Rookie of the Year voting to Braves shortstop Rafael Furcal. Then came the postseason.