Ken Harvey was sent down by the Royals after losing his battle with Calvin Pickering for the DH job. Harvey was an All-Star last season after finishing the first half with 10 home runs, 34 RBI, and .305/.353/.452/.805 in the ratio department. Of course, he finished up the year with 3 HR, 21 RBI, and .256/.311/.366/.677.

That made me wonder how often a player made the All-Star team, finishes up the season, and then was never heard from again. That is, assuming that Harvey's career is kaput.

Well, it's happened 36 times for various reasons. Here are the players who've done it:

You'll note that a number of immortals got to play in their final year. It's a time-honored tradition whether it's Gehrig in '39 or Cal Ripken a few seasons ago.

The next group consists of players who suffered a career-ending injury like Robb Nen or J.R. Richard. Aaron Boone would be in that category if his comeback this season fails.

Finally, you get the Ken Harvey types. They are Van Lingle Mungo, George McQuinn, and Tony Cuccinello. You'll note that those guys were a bit older though and two were let go at the end of WWII.

Harvey's accomplishment might be pretty singular and may be more a byproduct of the requiring each team to send a play and expansion-era baseball diluting talent.