http://0rz.net/2c1y6 Kuo Wild But Exciting Kevin Pearson 12:45 AM PDT on Sunday, June 18, 2006 By KEVIN PEARSON The Press-Enterprise OAKLAND - Among lefty relievers, Hong-Chih Kuo may have some of the best stuff in the majors. Now it's a matter of getting those pitches over the plate. Though he has struggled at times as a rookie and was sent to the minors for more than a month, Kuo has electric movement on his pitches, which include a 97 mph fastball that has late movement, and is one of the bright young stars who excite the organization. "I've still got a lot to learn," said the 6-foot, 237-pounder from Taiwan. "I've just got to get better every time I pitch." Kuo (pronounced "kwo") has been erratic. He has walked 17 in 19 2/3 innings while striking out 22, allowing 14 hits and posting a 5.49 ERA. "This man will pitch a lot in the major leagues," Manager Grady Little said. "But he is going through some growing pains now, but we can go through them with him if he keeps throwing 96 miles an hour." Most lefty relievers do not have Kuo's velocity, and he has shown the ability to be more than a specialist. He has held right-handers to a .200 average. "There are not a lot of left-handed relievers who throw the way he does," Little said. "It's a matter of corralling his pitches and getting them in the zone." Kuo has undergone a pair of Tommy John surgeries. He pitched one game for Class A San Bernardino in 2000, leaving after three no-hit innings and seven strikeouts with an elbow injury that required his first surgery. Izturis Nears Return When the Dodgers open a six-game homestand Tuesday against Seattle, it is likely that Cesar Izturis will rejoin the club after beginning the season on the disabled list. Izturis, a Gold Glove winner who had Tommy John surgery in September, will be hard-pressed to break into the lineup. Rafael Furcal and Jeff Kent are unlikely to move, and Izturis has never played third base. However, Little said the team has had discussions with Izturis about playing third. Injury Updates Jason Repko (high ankle sprain) ran a mile Saturday, the first time he has done so in his rehab. Ricky Ledee (left groin) could begin taking batting practice by the end of the week. --

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