GARY | Former RailCat and veteran pitcher Travis Kerber is expected to sign with his former club Tuesday night to pitch the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader against Joliet. Kerber, who was 8-7 last season, retired after the 2007 championship and has been working for the White Sox Academy.

Kerber started pitching in the RailCats' bullpen and quietly taking simulated practices before the Northern League All-Star game in July.

With Brian Forystek on the disabled list and a doubleheader coming after Tuesday's continuation of Monday's game followed by a seven-inning game, the RailCats will be short of available pitchers.

By signing his contract before midnight Tuesday, he will be available for the RailCats should they need him in the postseason.

"I don't want to view this as a one-day tryout," manager Greg Tagert said. "We're bringing him in as we would anyone else in this circumstance, and it could just be this time. He more than anybody understands."

Kerber's full-time job with the academy hasn't allowed him to take a job in professional baseball, but has been pitching almost five innings a week as a starter in a semi-pro league in Chicago, Tagert said.

Kerber has been consistently trying out with the club and is expected to take just one start, but could be available as needed.

For more RailCats coverage, read Wednesday's edition of The Times.