Taylorsville grad John Buck settling in with 3rd MLB team

New to the National League, Buck works closely with Florida pitching coach Randy St. Claire. "We are a lot alike. You can tell he cares," Buck said. "I am trying to get the most of out of my pitching staff. I am my biggest critic. I am hard on myself."

Buck, who won a state title at Taylorsville High, was drafted by Houston in the seventh round in 1998 and began his pro career in the Gulf Coast League. He was traded to the Royals in June 2004.

The Marlins began the season 23-16 and Buck said the goal is clear: the playoffs. On top of that the Marlins will open a new stadium in the little Havana section of Miami next year. "We have a lot of expectations on a lot of levels," Buck said.

David Driver is a freelance writer and can be reached at www.davidsdriver.com