University of Massachusets Athletics
Ron Villone To Start For Pirates On Opening Day
March 31, 2002 | Baseball
March 31, 2002
AMHERST, Mass. - Former UMass lefthanded pitcher Ron Villone has been named the opening day starter for the Pittsburph Pirates, it was announced today by Pirates general manager Dave Littlefield. Villone will face the New York Mets on Monday at Shea Stadium. In seven big league seasons, Villone is 29-31 with a 4.91 ERA.
"I'm pleased with the way he's pitched," said Littlefield. "I think he'll be a positive to the team not only with his abilities, but also because of the type of toughness and experience that he brings. I think he'll be a nice addition to our club."
While Villone is the only former UMass player to start the season on a major league roster, four other former Minutemen, including three with major league experience, will begin the year in AAA. Shortstop Gary DiSarcina will start the season with the Pawtucket Red Sox, in the Boston Red Sox organization. Righthanded pitcher Chad Paronto and shortstop Greg LaRocca will both begin 2002 with the Buffalo Bisons, in the Cleveland Indians organization. In addition, outfielder Doug Clark will start the year with the Fresno Grizzlies, the AAA affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.
