Bruney DFA’d, Stewart to Start Saturday

The White Sox designated reliever Brian Bruney for assignment Friday and announced that righty Zach Stewart will start Saturday against the Minnesota Twins.

Stewart was acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays along with reliever Jason Frasor for Edwin Jackson and allowed three runs on 10 hits over 6 1/3 innings in his only start at Triple-A Charlotte.

It’s a bit of a surprise move, but maybe Ozzie Guillen is banking on catching the Twins off-guard with a pitcher they’ve never seen before.

The advantage should be in Stewart’s corner, but if I’ve learned anything since I began following the White Sox, it’s to NEVER count out the Twins.

Bruney was roughed up in his last outing against the Yankees and was charged with five runs over 1 2/3 innings in three appearances against his former team. With the addition of Frasor last week, Bruney became the most expendable arm in the ‘pen.

This may just be a test start for Stewart. If pitching coach Don Cooper can work the magic with him that he worked with Jackson and Phil Humber, it could turn into a huge asset down the stretch.

But let’s get through Saturday first.

Stewart features a hard sinker that fits right in with the White Sox infield. Gordon Beckham and Brent Morel may not be hitting much, but their work with the leather has been irreplaceable this season.

The White Sox rebounded nicely Friday with a 5-3 win in the series opener in Minneapolis.

Stewart takes the mound Saturday and Jake Peavy will pitch the series finale Sunday.