Every week we like to catch up with a former Waterloo Buck and this week’s honor goes to John Baird.  John was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and played high school ball for Olentangy High School in Lewis Center, Ohio.  After playing high school baseball, he decided to attend the University of Dayton, Birmingham-Southern College, and the University of Cincinnati.  John stands 6’4" and weighs 220lbs which is a scary sight to see on any pitchers mound.  

During his time with the Waterloo Bucks in 2005, John played in 20 games.  He had a 2-4 record with a 4.07 ERA, 1 complete game, 1 save, 26 walks, and 45 strike outs in 48.2 innings pitched. 

After his time with the Waterloo Bucks, John ended up being drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2007 Amateur Draft (24th round, # 725 overall).  John only played a little part of the 2007 season and stuck around for the 2008 season before hanging up the glove. John played in 35 total games  for the Hudson Valley Renegades (A) and the Columbus Catfish (A) combined.  In the 35 games, John had a 3-8 record with a 6.84 ERA, 5 saves, 37 walks, 72 strike outs, and 75 innings.  

John Baird will always be recognized as a Waterloo Buck, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors. 

Catching Up with the Bucks" is presented by Hibachi & Sushi Buffet.  Located at 1535 Flammang Drive in Waterloo, stop by today for lunch or dinner.  Bringing you the freshest, finest quality traditional Japanese Hibachi, Japanese Sushi, and Asian dishes at prices you can afford to enjoy often.  Check waterloobucks.com every Wednesday for “Catching Up with the Bucks" powered by Hibachi & Sushi Buffet.[http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hibachi-Sushi-Buffet/121481424574892]