Peterson closing in on tour status in 2013

• By Ryan Ballengee
• Jun 18, 2012 10:38 AM ET

John Peterson began 2012 without status on any major professional tour. His T-4 finish at the U.S. Open on Sunday, however, brought him closer to having a home in 2013.

Peterson earned $276,841 for his week at The Olympic Club, bringing his season total to $309,411 in five PGA Tour starts. The 2011 NCAA individual champion from LSU needs to earn another $102,532 to secure special temporary membership on the PGA Tour through the end of the season.

Peterson's 2012 pull would then surpass No. 150 on last year's money list, affording him the right to take unlimited sponsor exemptions to fill out his schedule. PGA Tour non-members, like Peterson, are otherwise are limited to seven sponsor exemptions.

Non-members can play no more than 12 total events in a season through the combination of exemptions and earning a place in the field.

If Peterson finishes the year inside the top 125 on this season's money list, he will have PGA Tour status next season.

Were Peterson to earn special temporary membership and finish between 126-150 on the money list, he would be exempt into the final stage of Q-school. Every player to reach the final stage is guaranteed some status on the Nationwide Tour the following year.

Peterson is in the field this week at the Travelers Championship. If he finishes in a two-way tie for 15th place or better, he would earn special temporary membership.