This week, we are catching up with former Buck pitcher Matt Yourkin.  Matt was born in Napa, California and went to High School at Napa High School as well.  The 6’3" 225 pound left-handed pitcher attended St. Mary’s College of California during his time with the Waterloo Bucks.  Yourkin played in 14 games for the Bucks in the 2001 season.  

In his short time with the Bucks, Yourkin had a 1-1 record with a 2.89 ERA in 18.2 innings pitched with 22 strike outs and 17 walks.  After playing for the Bucks, Yourkin was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Florida Marlins in 2003.  

Even though Matt was an unsigned free agent, he has gone on to have a strong carrer.  In only two seasons, Yourkin was pulled up to triple A for the Albuquerque Isotopes where he played in 26 games.  After posting strong numbers in those 26 games, he was demoted to single A with the Marlins before 
signing with the San Francisco Giants the next season where he was placed in double A.  Last year, Yourkin played for the Fresno Grizzlies of the triple A team for the Giants.  

Oddly enough, Matt began his career as a relief pitcher until he signed with the Giants.  On average, Matt use to pitch in 1-3 innings in every one of his games, but those inning numbers skyrocketed in the time with the Fresno Grizzlies.  Currently, Matt is averaging 6 innings in every one of his appearances and has gone 17-16 as a starter, posting a 10-8 record in his second season.

It’ll be interesting to see how Matt does this year with the Giants.  Keep watching as the former Waterloo Buck strives to make it in the show.  We wish him the best, and hope he can finally reach his goal. 

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]