LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — July 1, 2025 is a day that Louisville Bats pitcher Sam Benschoter will never forget. That was the day he got his first call up to the major leagues. It was a dream realized, with another still to go.

"Didn't really sleep that night," said Benschoter. "I called my parents and my grandpa. I was able to text my coaches and a lot of people that had a really big impact on me from my youth all the way up that kind of led to that moment."

The 27-year-old relief pitcher met the team in Boston, then was sent back three days later, not having pitched. Ditto for a second call-up earlier this month which included stops in Pittsburgh and Cincinnati. His parents, sisters and coaches made trips to see him, but saw no pitches thrown.

"If I'm there and the club is winning games,

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