Definition
Larry Poncino is an American former professional baseball pitcher who appeared in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a relief pitcher for the Oakland Athletics and the Texas Rangers between 1979 and 1981.
Overview
Larry Poncino was born on May 5, 1955, in San Pedro, California. He attended San Diego State University, where he played collegiate baseball before being selected in the third round of the 1976 MLB amateur draft by the Oakland Athletics. Poncino made his MLB debut on July 12, 1979 with Oakland and appeared in his final major‑league game on August 23, 1981 with Texas. Over the course of his MLB career, he pitched in 38 games, all in relief, compiling a win–loss record of 0–3, an earned run average (ERA) of 4.73, and 36 strikeouts. Following his major‑league tenure, Poncino continued to play in the minor leagues for organizations such as the Portland Beavers, the Tucson Toros, and the Wichita Aeros before retiring from professional baseball.
Etymology/Origin
The surname “Poncino” is of Italian origin, derived from the diminutive form of “ponte,” meaning “bridge,” or from a patronymic derived from a personal name such as “Poncio.” The given name “Larry” is a diminutive of “Lawrence,” which originates from the Latin Laurentius, meaning “from Laurentum” or “crowned with laurel.”
Characteristics
- Position: Pitcher (relief)
- Bats/Throws: Right/Right
- Physical attributes: Listed at 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) and approximately 190 lb (86 kg) during his playing career.
- Playing style: Primarily used as a middle‑relief pitcher; known for a fastball in the mid‑90 mph range and a secondary slider.
- Statistical profile: In 38 MLB appearances, he pitched 55⅓ innings, allowed 58 hits, issued 30 walks, and struck out 36 batters.
Related Topics
- Oakland Athletics – MLB franchise for which Poncino debuted.
- Texas Rangers – MLB franchise with which Poncino concluded his major‑league career.
- Relief pitching – The specialized role Poncino fulfilled, typically entering games after the starting pitcher.
- 1976 MLB Draft – The draft in which Poncino was selected by Oakland.
- Minor league baseball – The developmental system where Poncino spent several seasons before and after his MLB tenure.