Former UK left-handed pitcher James Paxton has been called up and will make his MLB debut for the Seattle Mariners on Saturday against the Tampa Bay Rays, the organization announced. Paxton played for the Cats from 2007-09 before being taken in the first round of the MLB Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2009. He would eventually sign with the Mariners as a fourth-round pick in 2010 after spending a year in independent baseball.
According to a story released by Robert Falkoff for MLB.com, Paxton is excited for his opportunity to prove himself in the big leagues.
“I was hoping to get an opportunity and I'm just happy that I'm here. I can't wait to get my chance."
Paxton will be the 28th former UK player to advance to the show and is one of 57 Kentucky players drafted or signed to a free agent affiliated contract since Gary Henderson took over the program in 2004.
Go Cats.
@DJohnson_KSR
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