Where Are They Now: Casey Hudspeth

TROY, N.Y. - The ValleyCats pitching staff during the 2006 season ranks among the elite in ValleyCats history. Watervliet native Chris Salamida anchored the rotation, followed by starter Casey Hudspeth. Overshadowed by Salamida, Hudspeth has quietly advanced in the Houston Astros' minor league farm system.

The Astros drafted Hudspeth in the 15th round of the June 2006 draft from the University of South Florida. A native of Sarasota, Florida, Hudspeth would get a taste of the Northeast when he reported to Troy to begin his professional career in June. Hudspeth appeared in 15 games for the ValleyCats, starting 12. The right-hander posted a 3-4 record with a 3.92 ERA for the 'Cats that summer.

Hudspeth reported to Lexington in 2007 and pitched in 21 games, starting all of them. After compiling a record of 4-4 with a 4.83 ERA with the Legends, the Astros promoted Hudspeth to A-Advanced Salem. The Florida native excelled at the next level, posting a career-low 3.84 ERA in seven starts.

Hudspeth remained with the Avalanche at the start of the 2008 season and posted a 4-7 record with a 3.96 ERA in 17 starts. The right-hander was promoted to Double A Corpus Christi and won four games in nine starts for the Hooks.