Arizona Diamondbacks' Scott Hairston hits a solo homer in the first inning against the Houston Astros on Monday, July 26, 2004, in Houston.

 Pat Sullivan, Associated Press

Their career statistics are almost identical: Howell, a third baseman, hit .239 in 941 games with 108 home runs. Hairston, an outfielder, hit .242 with 106 home runs in 923 games.Β 

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Contact sports columnist Greg Hansen at 520-573-4362 or ghansen@tucson.com. On Twitter: @ghansen711