Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Sidney Ponson Will Start Thursday For Royals

Sidney Ponson’s next outing will come against big-league hitters after all. Hillman confirmed Ponson will now pitch Thursday against Seattle instead of Wednesday against a collection of Mariners’ minor-league personnel.

The switch means Luke Hochevar is now slotted for today’s minor-league game against Class AAA Tacoma, while Brian Bannister will pitch Thursday for Class AAA Omaha against Texas’ top minor-league affiliate.

Hillman acknowledged a desire to see Ponson pitch against big-league competition but cautioned against drawing conclusions from the switch.

“It’s not important for the reasons you guys may be formulating,” Hillman told reporters. “It’s just a matter of trying to make sure we get each guy three more times before we have to make decisions.

“And it could change again.”

Ponson, 32, joined the Royals as a free agent March 17 by signing a minor-league contract. He made his spring debut last Saturday by limiting Tacoma to one run and four hits in five innings.

Kansas City Star

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