Daniel Poncedeleon earned a big league call-up with the Cardinals June 11, but he did not appear in a game before the team optioned him back to AAA Memphis. With Michael Wacha's oblique strain, Poncedeleon could make a return to the majors soon.
The right-hander pitched three scoreless innings for AAA Memphis in the team's loss Thursday. The abbreviated start means he still could be available for the Cardinals Monday.
Poncedeleon has a 2.84 ERA since returning to Memphis after his brief call-up. His season ERA sits at 2.45.
•Catcher Andrew Knizner collected three hits in AA Springfield's loss Thursday.