Viera pitcher defies Powerball-sized odds to make major leagues

March 31, 2019-David McKay, a Satellite Beach native who pitched for Viera High, has defied Powerball-sized odds in getting called up to the Seattle Mariners late Saturday.

Boston pitcher Brian Johnson, who appeared in 38 games for the world champion Red Sox last season, has struck out four in two shutout innings and picked up a win Friday night.

But the story of the weekend is McKay, who might be challenging Cinderella for a remarkable life-changing moment. He was called up to the majors as the clock struck on his 24th birthday.

McKay’s father was on a plane to Seattle on Sunday morning, while his mom, Tracey, was taking David’s brother, Ryan (who pitches in the Angels’ organization) to Pensacola for Tommy John surgery with famed Dr. James Andrews.

“(David) called us the night before at 2 a.m., saying there was a possibility he could be called up,” Tracey said. “So yesterday, it was pack your bags, get to the airport.”

McKay had been at minor league camp in Arizona.

“He’s a hard worker, he loves it,” Tracey said. “It’s his passion and dream, and that means he’s following his dream. Today’s his birthday, so it will be cool to have him make his debut.”

Source: Florida Today