We're all mostly aware of how LHP John Koronka did in his stint with the Cubs this year, but as a quick refresher, here was his line:

W  L   ERA  G  GS    IP   H  ER  HR  BB  SO  WHIP
1  2  7.47  4   3  13.0  19  13   2   8  10  2.08

His lack of success this year for the Cubs is therefore unsurprising.  But he did pitch 13 scoreless innings in the Arizona Fall League for the Solar Sox, and had a WHIP of exactly 1.00.  And his Iowa Cubs line isn't great, but it's good:

W   L   ERA   G  GS     IP    H  ER  HR  BB  SO  WHIP
9  11  4.24  23  21  136.0  135  64  12  48  96  1.35

He's averaging a 0.79 home runs times per nine innings.  His 2:1 SO/BB ratio is also nice, especially given that it adds up to about 3.2 walks/9IP.  When you add in all the good things I remember hearing about him before his first start in LA this year, I'd say that Koronka, who will be turning 26 on July 3, will be a somewhat serious contender for the fifth starter role, a contest that will also presumably feature Rusch and Williams.

I was just wondering what the thoughts from various people here are about Koronka.  I remember liking him during that game in LA, but I do remember his line wasn't that great in the end.  Does he have what it takes to crack the 2006 rotation?  If he doesn't, should he be a lefty middle relief guy out of the 'pen, or should he get a full season starting in the Minors?  I am impressed that he didn't give up even a single run in the AFL, even if the competition there is substantially less fierce than the National League.  Aardsma's ERA for the Solar Sox is 10.60, by contrast.