2012 MLB Debuts: Sam Dyson

Sam Dyson
Sam Dyson was the fourth Fisher Cat to earn a promotion to the big leagues during the 2012 season.  His call-up in early July came as a surprise to many - including Dyson.  The 2010 fourth-round draft pick was expected to be a starter for most of the year in Advanced A Dunedin, but a switch to the bullpen brought a promotion to New Hampshire and his eventual stint with the Blue Jays.
 
Dyson, who is currently playing in the Arizona Fall League, missed all of last season after having Tommy John Surgery.  After making his pro debut this spring, Dyson made six starts before earning his ticket to Double-A.  Pitching in New Hampshire, he was shifted to the bullpen, and saw immediate success.  Packing a heavy fastball that touches the mid'90's, Dyson allowed just two earned runs over his first 13 outings. 
 
After a pair of shutout innings to begin the month of July, Dyson got the call to Toronto.  He made his debut on July 5, recording a strikeout against the Kansas City Royals.  His next outing wasn't as smooth as the Yankees touched him up for three runs on July 17.
 
All told, Dyson made just two appearances in a Blue Jays uniform, allowing three earned runs over 0.2 innings.  He finished the year in New Hampshire, pitching a total of 33 games for the Fisher Cats with a 2.38 ERA and nine saves.