Brett Tomko said he felt great pitching Friday after having just two days of rest.
Tomko pitched five innings Tuesday, his first major league start in three weeks because of shoulder soreness and a disagreement with manager Jack McKeon.
Of course, it was just one inning Friday, but Tomko was pleased nonetheless.
''I felt tremendous,'' Tomko said. ''I didn't expect to feel that good on two days rest. My fastball felt awesome. I felt I could throw it through anything, so I was probably overthrowing a little. I threw two breaking balls halfway decent.''
McKeon, who hasn't been happy with Tomko this spring and is getting tired of answering questions about him, wasn't surprised a reporter asked after Friday's game. He had a bet with the coaches that someone would pose a question about the second-year right-hander.
''I'm glad you asked, because now I win the bet,'' McKeon joked. ''He looked good. There's nothing wrong with his arm, it's just getting his consistency and his location.''
The team leaves for Cincinnati Sunday, but Tomko will stay back an extra day and throw seven innings in a minor league game Monday, then fly to Cincinnati that night.
''We don't care if he gives up 15 hits,'' McKeon said. ''We want him to work on location.''
Hoopla
NBC plans a big day for Opening Day in Cincinnati. The Today show's Al Roker will film live segments from Fountain Square and Cincinnati native Linda Vester, an NBC anchor, will throw out the first pitch.Short hops
One sure sign spring training's almost over: the trucks carrying players' cars back to Cincinnati were loading up Friday evening.
The Reds released several minor-leaguers Thursday, including pitcher David West and outfielder Craig Griffey, son of coach Ken Griffey, Sr.
Reds short on runs
Sullivan on even keel
Royals 3, Reds 2
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