Ponson discovers true focus as jail stay changes pitcher's views.

Publication: South Florida Sun-Sentinel (via Knight-Ridder/Tribune News Service)

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COPYRIGHT 2005 South Florida Sun-Sentinal

Byline: Craig Barnes

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. _ Sidney Ponson is in the best shape of his career, and 11 days in an Aruban jail has helped sharpen the Baltimore right-hander's focus about baseball and life.

Ponson, 27, doesn't talk about specifics of the incident at Boca Catalina on Dec. 25 because the case is still pending, and he regrets it. He allegedly hit an Aruban judge during a beach brawl with several men and was jailed on an assault charge.

There is a hearing on the matter in Aruba on Thursday. Ponson has moved to Fort Lauderdale, leaving the island where he had lived most of his life. He has a greater appreciation and understanding of the star status that comes with a three-year, $22.5 million contract.

"It was a life-changing experience," Ponson said....

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