Yesterday, I highlighted for UK pitcher, Brandon Webb.  I’ve decided to do the same today.

Not as successful, but still a Major League pitcher, Joe Blanton is a world champion.  The stunning reality about Blanton is that he was a rather average college player—he posted a career 4.59 ERA in three seasons in the Bluegrass.  However, he led the SEC with 133 strikeouts in his final season (2002).  He compiled a mediocre 13-12 record.

Following his time in the BBN, Blanton was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the first round of the 2002 draft. 

Since debuting in 2004, Blanton has piled up a respectable 77-66 record with a career 4.33 ERA.

When did the highlight of his career come?  In 2008, while pitching for the Philadelphia Phillies in the World Series, Blanton clubbed a home run and earned the victory in game 4 over the Tampa Bay Rays.

He’s got a mean 12-6 curveball, which has been the main pitch he has utilized towards his success.  Is he the most successful guy to come from the land of the Cats?

No, but we remain proud all the same!  I may be a Reds’ fan, but I”ll always cheer for a fellow member of the Big Blue Nation!