CONTRACT STATUS: Signed through 2005.

2004 SEASON: Bolstered a solid bullpen while posting a career-low ERA (2.38) and appearing in his most games since 1997.

His 77 appearances were his most since making a N.L.-leading 89 in 1997 with SF.

Posted a 5-2 record and 1.48 ERA (30.1 IP/ 5 ER) in the season’s final three months (38 apps.)...allowed 19 hits, walked eight and fanned 23.

Has allowed just one HR in his last 112.1 IP dating to 7/7/03.

Stranded 32 of 43 runners inherited, which ranked 14th in the NL.

His 27 games finished were two shy of his career high set in 2003 and second on the team to closer Isringhausen.

Allowed more than one earned run just twice (4/11 at ARI and 6/23 vs. CHI), both times it was just two earned runs surrendered.

Was 3-0 with a 0.51 ERA in 18 outings (17.2 IP) vs. teams from the N.L. East.

Had either win, hold or save in 16 of his last 31 appearances.

MISC: Attended Santiago public schools in the Dominican Republic...visited and greeted kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital for Cardinals Care during the 2004 season...name is pronounced JOOL-ee-en tah-VAR-rez.