Notes: Stricker ends amazing comeback year

ATLANTA -- Steve Stricker closed out his surprising season Sunday by finishing second in the FedEx Cup, edging Phil Mickelson for the runner-up spot.

Stricker closed with a 3-under 67 at the Tour Championship, though a mediocre third round (71) ended any hopes of claiming the $10 million prize.

"I wish I had given myself a better chance," Stricker said. "I just couldn't get the putter going."

All in all, though, it was a remarkable year for a player who lost his card two years ago and came into this season with just over $10 million in career earnings. He played in the final group of a major for the first time at the British Open, and has top-10 finishes in the first three events of the PGA Tour Playoffs.

He tied for 17th among 30 players at the Tour Championship.

"Overall, I'm just elated with the year I had," Stricker said. "I feel like I'm a much more confident player. I'm striking the ball better. I'm more aggressive."

But it won't change his lifestyle. After the Presidents Cup, he'll spend the winter at his home in Wisconsin, getting in some bow hunting with friends and probably taking a few practice swings in the snow.

"In December," he said, "I'll be out there hitting a few."

Shaky putter

Mark Calcavecchia knew his odds of catching Tiger Woods were slim to begin with -- and he had no chance when the putter faltered.

Calcavecchia, who started the final round three shots back, wound up eight behind in a tie for second after closing with a 1-over 71.

After starting with a birdie, Calcavecchia's putting woes began when he missed a 6-footer to save par at the par-3 second. Woods also lipped out a short putt, leaving his lead at two strokes.

Woods made his first birdie at No. 6, but Calcavacchia had a chance to get it back when he stood over a 4-footer at the next hole. But the ball skidded by the cup and he settled for par, which turned out to be his final gasp.

Woods responded with two consecutive birdies, made the turn with a four-shot lead and steadily pulled away. When Calcavacchia missed a 5-foot birdie try at No. 16, he tossed his putter toward the bag in disgust.