I know it’s a little too early to be talking about Sidney Ponson as the comeback player of the year, but he has had quite an impressive spring. I thought for sure that super prospect Anthony Reyes would get that fifth spot in the rotation, but he got hit hard and is going to start the season at Triple A. I’m hoping to find the time to do weekly minor league reports so I’ll be keeping tabs on how he’s doing.
Anyway, Ponson went six innings and gave up one run on only two hits. He walked one and struck out one and his spring ERA is now down to an even 3.00. I’m never looking for a breakout season from a fifth starter, but the way Ponson is throwing, 12-13 wins might not be out of the question, which is usually what you’re looking from your bottom rotation guy.
Jim Edmonds continues to hit the ball well. He has 11 hits in 24 at bats with three doubles and a homerun. David Eckstein’s also been a pleasant surprise. While he’s a modest 14 for 42 at the plate, he’s walked six times and only struck out once. Scott Rolen hasn’t quite gotten things going yet. He has yet to hit a homerun this spring in 31 at bats.
Mark Mulder throws for the Cards today against the Marlins.
