Northwoods Wausau Woodchucks

Woodchucks in the Majors

Published on April 5, 2013 under Northwoods League (Northwoods)
Wausau Woodchucks News Release


(Wausau) - With baseball season only a few days old, its time to take a look at some former Woodchucks that have successfully made their way through the ranks to reach the Majors. Overall, 13 former Woodchucks have seen time at the Major League level. This year, five former Woodchucks were on the opening day roster for their respective Major League teams.

Probably the most well-known and successful Woodchuck alum is Ben Zobrist. A 2003 alum, Zobrist is currently in his eighth season with the Tampa Bay Rays. His best season came in 2009 when he was named an American League All-Star, hitting .297 with 27 home runs and 91 RBI. Zobrist holds a career average of .261 and is best known for his versatility in the field, having played ever position for the Rays during his career except pitcher and catcher.

Next up is Pat Neshek, a Woodchuck alum from 2000. Neshek was called up to the Twins organization in 2006. That year he went 4-2 with a 2.19 ERA. Since leaving the Twins in 2010, Neshek has played for the San Diego Padres, Baltimore Orioles and is currently with the Oakland A's. He holds a career 2.99 ERA with a 14-8 record.

Like Neshek, '01 alum Casey Janssen also saw his first Major League action in 2006 for the Toronto Blue Jays. After seeing most of his action come in middle relief over his first five season, Janssen earned the role of the teams closer in 2012, notching 22 saves in 25 opportunities. He currently holds a career ERA of 3.59.

Mark Lowe was a member of the Woodchucks from 2002-03. He saw his first Major League action with the Seattle Mariners in 2006. In 2010 he went from the Mariners to the Texas Rangers and was part of their back-to-back World Series appearances. He holds a career 3.88 ERA and is currently a member of the Los Angeles Angels.

Lastly, we have 2006 Woodchuck alum, Daniel Descalso. Descalso has only seen two full seasons of professional ball, but is the only former Woodchuck with a World Series ring, which he won as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011. He holds a career .247 average and was a finalist for the Rawlings Gold Glove Award at third base for the National League in 2011.

The Woodchucks season begins May 29th at Athletic Park when the Green Bay Bullfrogs come to town. First pitch is at 6:35pm. Season tickets, 7-game packs, luxury suites and group outing packages are on sale now. To book yours or get more information, call the Woodchucks office at (715) 845-5055.

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Northwoods League Stories from April 5, 2013


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