Kingman to Start Comeback in PCL

Former major league slugger Dave Kingman, 58 home runs shy of the 500 mark, is ready to join the triple-A Phoenix Firebirds in hopes of returning to the big leagues again.

Club officials said Sunday that the 38-year-old Kingman will officially sign a contract when he is activated.

Kingman, 38, reported to the team Saturday night and said he will work out twice a day in hopes of being ready to play “in a matter of days.”

Phoenix Manager Wendell Kim said he plans to use Kingman as a designated hitter for the Pacific Coast League team, which is an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. Kingman reported at 220 pounds, five pounds under his playing weight.

Kingman became a free agent last November after playing the past three seasons with the Oakland Athletics.