Remember that Wisconsonian from the 1970s and 1980s, name of Andy North? Seemed to come out to win a US Open every ten years, then head back to the woodshed with his cash. In the era of Tiger Woods, Andy North wouldn’t win spit, but his legacy is carried on by Steve Stricker, another badger who finds a way to establish himself as a major contender.

Stricker has three tour victories to his credit. Two happened nearly a dozen years ago, when his wife was on the bag. The third took place six years past, in the most arbitrary of Tour events, the match play. Since then, bupkus.

Check out, though, his record in national major open championships over the past five years:
2007…British Open (2nd after three rounds) US Open (t13)
2006…British Open (dnp) US Open (6)
2005…British Open (dnp) US Open (dnp)
2004…British Open (dnp) US Open (cut)
2003…British Open (dnp) US Open (dnp)

Strange that I dignify this column with such a comparison? Exactly my point. He comes out of the woodwork, drops into contention, then departs.

Stricker will probably never set the world on fire with another multiple-win season. However, assuming he stays healthy, he’s a safe bet to be in the top 20 at national open championships for which he qualifies.