The Kansas City T-Bones and manager Tim Doherty have agreed to terms with University of Kansas product and 2009 Northern League All-Star pitcher Ryan Knippschild for the 2010 season.

Knippschild, 27, was originally selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 35th round of the 2004 amateur draft.  After three seasons with the Indians, the left-hander spent the 2007 campaign in the Texas Rangers organization.  He advanced as high as Double-A in both systems.

“Ryan is much better than his record showed last season,” said Doherty.  “He’s a quality left-hander that we expect to have a very successful year.  His signing fills our starting staff for next season.”

Knippschild posted a 4-8 record in 2009 despite finishing eighth in ERA with a 4.44 mark.  He struck out 103 batters, the second-best total in the league.  A reliever most of his career, Knippschild set career highs in starts (20), innings pitched (125 and two-thirds), and strikeouts.

The left-hander allowed three or fewer runs in 12 of his 20 starts in 2009, but settled for a 4-4 record with four no-decisions in those outings.

The T-Bones have also acquired outfielder Dwayne White from San Angelo of the independent United League for a player to be named.

White, 26, spent three years in the Minnesota Twins system after being signed as an undrafted free agent out of Cowley County Community College in Kansas.  He has split the last two seasons between the United League and independent American Association, posting his best season with Laredo of the United League in 2008.  During that campaign, White hit .357/.432/.525 in 87 games, finishing second in hits (123) and triples (7) and third in average.

“Dwayne is a versatile outfielder,” added Doherty.  “He is a left-handed hitter with above-average speed that can play all three outfield positions.”

The T-Bones begin their 2010 campaign against the RailCats in Gary, IN on May 20 and will host the RedHawks in their home opener on May 28.  Season ticket packages and mini plans are available now by calling 913-328-5618.  For information on group outings, call 913-328-5623.  Single game tickets for the exhibition and regular season will go on sale in March.  Visit www.tbonesbaseball.com to stay up-to-date throughout the year.