Drew Butera, born on September 9, 1983 in Indiana, comes from a family deeply rooted in baseball. His father, Sal Butera, was a former MLB catcher, which sparked Drew's interest in the sport from a young age. Growing up, Drew showed exceptional skill and talent on the baseball field, catching the eye of scouts early on.
After graduating from Bishop Moore High School in 2002, Drew was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays. However, he decided to further his education and attend the University of Central Florida instead. It was during his time at UCF that Drew really honed his skills and developed into a top prospect. In 2005, he was drafted again, this time by the New York Mets.
Butera made his MLB debut in 2010 with the Minnesota Twins, where he made a name for himself as a reliable and skilled catcher. He went on to play for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Kansas City Royals, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess behind the plate. In 2013, Drew had the opportunity to represent Italy at the World Baseball Classic, further solidifying his reputation as a talented player.
One of Drew's most notable achievements came in 2011 when he became the fifth catcher in major league history to catch a no-hitter in both the National League and American League. He accomplished this feat with the Minnesota Twins in 2011 and then again with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2014. This rare accomplishment solidified Drew's place in baseball history.
Off the field, Drew is known for his strong work ethic and dedication to the game. He credits much of his success to his father, Sal, who has been a constant source of support and guidance throughout his career. Drew's passion for baseball runs deep, and he continues to inspire young players with his commitment to the sport.
As Drew Butera continues to make his mark on the baseball world, his legacy is cemented as one of the most skilled and respected catchers of his generation. His ability to excel in both the National League and American League speaks to his versatility and adaptability as a player. Drew's passion for the game and dedication to excellence serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.