Tuesday 6th April 2004
Phil Henderson
Baseball Reporter

Brett Roneberg will start his ninth season of American baseball with the taste of major league action still fresh in his mouth after one of his most productive pre-seasons since relocating to the United States.

The Cairns product opens 2004 with Boston Red Sox "AA" minor league affiliate the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday, but could push for a spot with "AAA" outfit Pawtucket this year.

With some pundits forecasting the 25-year-old as a possible major league baseballer next year, the Red Sox, which signed the outfield utility in the off-season, showed its faith in Roneberg's potential by tossing him into the fire against the Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays in Major League Spring Training games in Florida last month.
He had one hit from five at-bats during the three games and was widely praised for his defence in rightfield.

The 2000 Olympian said playing alongside the likes of marque pitchers Curt Schilling and Pedro Martinez, and six-time All Star slugger Manny Ramirez was an "awesome experience" he would never forget.
"I actually talked to Manny a little about hitting and he said he liked my swing a lot which was great to hear, coming from someone like him," he said.

Roneberg had earned invites to Major League Spring Training games in previous years without taking the field.

The Red Sox also invited Roneberg to its clash with arch-rivals New York Yankees, but Roneberg did not play.

If he steps up to play "AAA" ball with the Pawtucket Red Sox, Roneberg will be just one rung below the big leagues.

"I feel better than ever heading into this year," Roneberg said.
"The front office is full of people I have known from other organisations that like me and it's nice to know that they have confidence in me.
I play well and who knows what the year will bring."

Roneberg will start his 2004 campaign in familar territory, returning to Altoona in Pennsylvania for Opening Day on Thursday.
Roneberg played for the Altoona Curve in the Pittsburgh Pirates organisation all last year.

"I'm looking forward to going there and beating them," he said.