He won his first game on July 27 of that year against the Atlanta Braves-in five innings of work, he walked four, struck out two, and gave up six hits but still managed a win. He completed his first game on September 23 against the Colorado Rockies-albeit a shortened game. He finished his rookie season with a 6–6 record and a 3.23 ERA.
After years in the minors, he finally reached the major leagues at the age of 30 in  with the Florida Marlins (to whom he'd been traded for Brant Brown). His major league debut (June 30) was impressive-in six innings of work, he gave up six hits, struck out six and only allowed one earned run-a home run by Ron Gant in the first inning, which was also the first hit he ever gave up. He earned no decision in the game.