By Kevin Kelly
The Cincinnati Enquirer

It wasn't difficult to find somebody in the Reds clubhouse happier than Mark Budzinski was Sunday. After more than eight seasons in the minor leagues without a major league call-up, the Reds promoted the 29-year-old outfielder from Triple-A Louisville on Sunday.

"It's a flow of emotions," said Budzinski, who was acquired from the Brewers for cash on June 6. "Obviously I'm excited, don't know what to expect.

"It's something you set as a goal when you first sign. It's nice to reach it. Now I'm going to set other goals onward and hopefully upward. It's a great opportunity and I'm excited."

So is first baseman Sean Casey, who counts Budzinski as his best friend.

"For him to be here, I know it's the biggest dream come true for me, too," Casey said. "Just to see him in a big-league uniform, let alone playing on the same team, it's great."

The two were teammates, roommates and even waited tables together while at the University of Richmond.

Both began their professional careers in the Indians organization and have kept in touch through phone calls ever since.

Casey is the godfather of Budzinski's 11-month-old son Josh, and was a member of Budzinski's wedding party. Budzinski is the godfather of Casey's son Andrew and was the best man in Casey's wedding.

"It's kind of like a storybook," Casey said. "It's unbelievable."

Budzinski, whose wife, son, parents and a few friends attended Sunday's game, batted .277 with two homers, 23 RBI and 13 stolen bases in 99 games combined with Indianapolis and Louisville.

"To be together (with Sean) on the same team makes it that much more special," he said.

Budzinski pinch hit in the seventh inning but struck out.