Messages roll in for DeSclafani after debut

SAN FRANCISCO -- Right-hander Anthony DeSclafani heard from old friends and family after winning his Major League debut, Miami's 13-3 victory over the Dodgers on Wednesday.

"Nothing crazy," DeSclafani said before Thursday night's opener against the Giants. "My girlfriend, my family, my best friend. Those were all the people I needed to hear from. I did hear from people from high school and college."

DeSclafani attended Colts Neck High in New Jersey before playing for the University of Florida from 2009-11. He became the sixth player from coach Kevin O'Sullivan's 2010 SEC championship team to reach the Majors, joining Kevin Chapman (Astros), Matt den Dekker (Mets), Steven Rodriguez (Dodgers), Mike Zunino (Mariners) and Nick Maronde (Angels).

"I know there are going to be ups and downs throughout my career," DeSclafani said. "I just want to work hard to be consistent."

There are currently seven former Gators in the Majors: DeSclafani, Zunino, Mark Ellis (Cardinals), Darren O'Day (Orioles), Ryan Raburn (Indians), David Ross (Red Sox) and Cole Figueroa (Rays).

"We had reports that he had good command, but you never know what you're going to get until you get out under the lights," manager Mike Redmond said. "When you talk about Jose [Fernandez] being gone, it's an opportunity for someone to step up. He took advantage of that."