(Wausau, WI) Jay Buente, a decorated Wisconsin Woodchucks alumnus, is finally getting his shot in the big leagues after being called up by the Florida Marlins today.
Drafted in the 14th round of the 2006 MLB draft by Florida, Buente had an impressive career Minor League ERA of 3.14. Buente moved up the minor league ladder one level every season until being promoted to AAA New Orleans from AA ball midway through the 2009 season.
Following the 2009 season, Buente was a participant in the prospect rich Arizona Fall League and was added to the Marlins’ 40 man roster. The addition made Buente a participant in 2010 spring training, which very likely accelerated his ascent to the MLB.
The Purdue alum had an outstanding two year career with the Woodchucks in 2004 and 2005. As a sophomore with the ‘Chucks in 2004, Buente was a South Division All-Star on his way to a 5-3 record, a 3.07 ERA, and 77 strikeouts in only 85 innings pitched.
In his second season with the ‘Chucks in ’05, Buente would be named a Summer League All-American by Baseball America. Buente would go on to set a franchise record with 100 strikeouts, on top of a team low 1.43 ERA.
The Woodchucks 2010 home opener is on Thursday, June 3rd as they take on the Madison Mallards. For group outing/ticket information contact the Woodchucks office at 715-845-5055 or visit the Woodchucks website at woodchucks.com.