02/06/2007 11:44 AM - The Kansas City T-Bones of the independent Northern League announced the signing of relief pitcher Rick Hummel.

He spent two and a half season in the White Sox organization before being released and acquired by the Schaumburg Flyers in 2004.

Hummel returns to an Andy McCauley managed team after sitting out two seasons with injury problems.

“With minor setbacks the last few years,” said McCauley, “I’m really looking forward to seeing what Rick can do for us this year”

Hummel pitched for McCauley and Schaumburg in 2004 before injuring his back at the end of the season. The injury also caused him to sit out the 2005 campaign. He attempted a comeback with the Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks in 2006, but suffered a season-ending knee injury before it ever started.

Hummel finished the 2004 season 3-0 with five saves and a 2.79 ERA in 19.1 IP of relief work.

McCauley said he intends to use Hummel in short relief situations early in the season and hopefully moving him into either the setup or closer’s role as the season progresses.