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Outfielder unofficial member until team gets results of physical

Tuesday, February 25, 2003

By Robert Dvorchak, Post-Gazette Sports Writer

BRADENTON, Fla. -- Reggie Sanders was in the clubhouse yesterday. His nameplate and a jersey with his name and the No. 19 hung in his locker. But he isn't officially a member of the Pirates until the results from the physical he took yesterday come back.

"For our standpoint, we can't officially comment or announce anything until people pass the physical," General Manager Dave Littlefield said.

If the test results are satisfactory, Sanders, a free-agent outfielder, will be on the field today.

Sanders, 35, agreed to terms on a one-year, $1 million contract last week.

Pokey practices

Second baseman Pokey Reese, recovering from an injured right index finger, fielded ground balls yesterday, the first time he has participated in drills other than conditioning work.

"It felt great. There's no pain at all," said Reese, who closed his car door on his finger while loading his dog into his car a month ago in Pittsburgh.

Reese also hits balls off a tee in the batting cages and was able to throw lightly with a splint on his finger.

X-ray for Lincoln

Relief pitcher Mike Lincoln, who has been out with a bruised right shoulder, had an X-ray yesterday. Lincoln's shoulder was injured when he fell while jogging Feb. 14.

"It's the moment of truth," said Lincoln, who hasn't thrown from the mound in a week.

Results of the X-ray were unavailable last night.

New time for opener

Game time for the April 7 home opener against the Brewers has been moved up an hour to 6:05 p.m., which will allow fans to watch the NCAA championship basketball game later that night.

The Pirates also announced that individual game tickets will go on sale March 8 at the annual open house at PNC Park. The event, open to the public, will include tours of the park, autographs from former Pirates players and a question-and-answer session with General Manager Dave Littlefield. Game tickets can also be purchased online at pittsburghpirates.com or by calling 1-877-893-BUCS.