Meloan Update

From Steve Henson at the L.A. Times:

Rapid climb

How highly regarded a prospect is reliever John Meloan? The Dodgers nearly promoted him to the major leagues last September even though he had only five appearances at double A.

Meloan, a right-hander who was 24-4 from 2003 to 2005 at the University of Arizona, was brought to L.A. for a physical, but team doctors suggested he cut his season short because his elbow showed signs of fatigue.

"There was a chance I was going to join the team, and that was a boost in itself," Meloan said. "I find myself saying I can play at this level."

Meloan was dominant at three levels last season, beginning the season at low Class-A Columbus, Ga., moving up to high Class-A Vero Beach and finishing at double-A Jacksonville. He struck out 91 and walked only 15 in 52 2/3 innings.

The Dodgers say he probably will begin the season as the closer at Jacksonville and could move up quickly to triple A and Dodger Stadium.

He pitched a scoreless inning in his first Grapefruit League appearance, walking the first batter he faced on four pitches before retiring the next three on five pitches.

I thought he was named Jonathan. Good news, regardless.