Mike

Tonis

Tonis, a top catching prospect, ''just needs innings,’' says Jackson. He’s not yet someone to invest in in keeper leagues.

Technically, the Royals could retain Tonis and outright him to the minors if he clears waivers, but they’ll probably grant him his release.

Tonis will rejoin Wichita after finishing up his stint with the Greek Olympic team.

Tonis, who should be the Royals’ regular catcher someday if he can avoid injuries, went 7-for-25 with a homer this spring.

Tonis started pitching in minor league camp in spring training. ''It’s a recognition that some catchers have moved ahead of him,’' GM Allard Baird said. ''He could still make it as a catch-and-throw (catcher). But he has a strong arm…''

Tonis used to be considered Kansas City’s catcher of the future, but injuries have taken a huge toll and the team now has John Buck and Justin Huber ahead of him. There’s still a chance that Tonis could turn into a solid backup, but he’ll probably slip through waivers.

The Royals no longer needed Tonis on the roster as newly-acquired John Buck will take over the catching duties in Kansas City.

Surprising. Tonis was batting just .227/.270/.298 in 50 games for Wichita, and backing up Kelly Stinnett probably won’t aid his development. Then again, he’s no longer viewed as much more than a potential backup, so it really doesn’t matter too much that he won’t continue to play regularly.