Bucs shuffle ownership structure- MLB.com

The Pirates emphasis having a ''stable platform'' for the future, but after 14 seasons of not having a winning team their future does not look pretty bright. They have good young players in Jason Bay and Freddy Sanchez, but it seems impossible to think that Pittsburgh can compete in the tough NL Central.

I like the fact that the Pirates want to be financially responsible, but at some point they need to open up their pockets and spend money. They will not post a winning record for the next 14 seasons if they don't begin to sign top of the line free agents. This might involve over spending on a player or two, but after a while they will make the right signings, and this will translate into having a winning franchise on the field.

Nutting to lead organization, McClatchy stays on as CEO
By Ed Eagle / MLB.com

PITTSBURGH -- In a move that the Pittsburgh Pirates hope will add clarity to their organizational structure, the team has requested that Major League Baseball recognize a change of control within the team's ownership group.

Under the proposed move, Pirates chairman Bob Nutting would be recognized as the leader of the Pittsburgh ownership. Kevin McClatchy, who has served as the Pirates' managing general partner since becoming baseball's youngest owner in 1996, will remain as the team's chief executive officer.

Nutting, who also serves as the president and CEO of Ogden Newspapers, Inc., has been a member of the Pirates' board of directors since 2002. The Nutting family, including Nutting's father and fellow board member, G. Ogden Nutting, has been affiliated with the Pirates since joining McClatchy's original investment group in 1996.

As the Nutting family's investment in the Pirates has increased gradually over time -- they are currently the majority owners of the team, so has Bob Nutting's influence within the organization. He has worked closely with McClatchy to restructure the team's finances since 2003, when the Pirates were essentially forced to trade star third baseman Aramis Ramirez to the Cubs due to financial difficulties.

"My personal involvement since 2003 has been focused on making sure we have a stable platform to ensure the long-term viability of the franchise, to ensure that we have the flexibility so that we can hold our young core together, so that we can put a competitive team on the field, and we don't have to go through that kind of trauma in the future," said Nutting.

According to Nutting and McClatchy, both of whom met with MLB.com and other members of the media in two-on-one sessions throughout the afternoon Friday, the Pirates are simply asking Major League Baseball to give its official stamp of approval on a structural change that has been occurring gradually within the organization for the past three years. They do not view the request as any kind of a major franchise shakeup.

"This has just been a gradual development," said McClatchy.

"It was a natural evolution that brought us to this point," Nutting added.

After keeping a very low public profile during his first three years as chairman, Nutting believes that it is imperative for him to become a more visible member of the organization in order to clear up any possible misconceptions about his family's role in the franchise's leadership.

"I think it's fair to the team and the fans to have clarity," said Nutting. "The speculation of our role, Kevin's role, didn't help the team. I think being clear in all of that and moving forward with a clear, understandable structure is important."

There was widespread speculation last summer that McClatchy would sell his stake in the team or be forced out as CEO by the Nuttings following the 2006 season. McClatchy announced in October that he would remain with the club, and Nutting said Friday that he wanted to "make it crystal clear" that he has "unconditional support" for McClatchy.

"Kevin is remaining in charge," said Nutting. "He's been a successful leader of the organization ... from saving the team in '96, to getting PNC Park, the best park in America, built, [to bringing] last year's All-Star Game [to Pittsburgh]."

McClatchy does not expect his responsibilities to differ drastically under the proposed structural change, either within the framework of the team or in his dealings with the rest of the Major League owners. He said Friday that he will continue to hold a seat on such important league-wide committees as the MLB Executive Council.

"I am the CEO. If you are the CEO of any company, you are responsible for the day-to-day operations of that company," said McClatchy. "I don't really see it as a major change. Bob and I have been working together since he became chairman. We have a good working relationship."

The change in the ownership structure must be approved by Major League Baseball's owners. A vote to officially recognize the shift in control will be held on Jan. 18 in Phoenix during the quarterly owners meetings.

Major League Baseball Commissioner Alan H. "Bud" Selig expressed his support for Nutting in a statement released Friday by the Pirates.

"Bob and his family provide strong, stable ownership for the Pirates," said Selig. "Their long history of leading successful organizations and multi-generational commitment to the Pittsburgh region will translate well for the Pirates. I have enjoyed working with Bob over the past several years. He has a great passion for the Pirates and a tremendous desire for the team to succeed."

The one area of the Pirates that both Nutting and McClatchy want to change dramatically is the team's on-field performance. Pittsburgh has not posted a winning season since 1992.

"We are absolutely committed to putting the best possible team that we can out on the field," said Nutting. "The community deserves improvement, the fans deserve improvement, and frankly, I expect improvement. I believe we are well-positioned to see that with the young players that we have."

How will this commitment to winning impact the Pirates' payroll, which will likely be among the lowest in the Major Leagues again in 2007 at approximately $50 million?

"It is important that we maintain the long-term financial viability of the franchise," said Nutting. "But we have jointly discussed, reviewed and committed as many dollars to the on-field payroll, developmental staff and scouting staff to do everything we can to create a solid, competitive team going forward.

"Honestly, I think the plan is working. We have constraints in a market this size. But the plan of building from within, developing your own players, holding on to your own players -- that's the way we're going to be competitive."

McClatchy was quick to note that the team has given GM Dave Littlefield increased financial resources in recent seasons, and he defended the team's lack of significant offseason additions.

"We have taken payroll up since 2004," said McClatchy. "Dave has money to spend right now. But Dave has to find the right player, the right need, to spend it on.

"I know a lot has been made about this offseason about why didn't we go out and spend $50 million on a .500 pitcher. I think it goes back to financial responsibility, which gives you financial flexibility when you need it.

"Dave is, contrary to what I have seen some places, working the phone lines very closely. He is trying to get a couple of more players that are going to go well with our young core of players. We know we have to add to [the roster]. We have the flexibility to do that. Ownership has given Dave an increase in payroll to do that. It's just a question of executing in the right area."

Pending approval by Major League Basbeall, Nutting will become the sixth principal owner in Pirates franchise history, joining Barney Dreyfuss (1900-32), Bill Benswanger (1932-46), John Galbreath (1946-85), Pittsburgh Associates (1985-96) and McClatchy (1996-2007).

"I want to make sure it gets across at just how honored I am to have an opportunity to have a control position of a truly historic franchise," said Nutting. "I am proud of my association with the team. I take the role and the responsibility very seriously -- the responsibility to the fans, the responsibility to the team and its history and now, with the change in control, the responsibility to Major League Baseball."

The Pirates also announced Friday that they will be adding two new members to their board of directors: William Nutting and Duane Wittman. Both men are executives with Ogden Newspapers, Inc. The six-man board now includes Bob, Ogden and Bill Nutting, McClatchy, Wittman and Don Beaver, each of whom have one vote apiece.

Ed Eagle is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs

WITH ANDY OFFICIALLY BACK, EYES TURN TO ROCKET- NY POST

If Roger Clemens decides to return to the Bronx the Yankees will become the perennial favorites to win the World Series. Still, Clemens must realize that he won't be receiving the same luxuries that he did in Houston. Don't expect a decision by the Rocket any time soon.

By MICHAEL MORRISSEY

January 12, 2007 -- Another Rocket launch will happen in 2007, Roger Clemens' buddy Andy Pettitte predicted yesterday. And Brian Cashman promised a "full-court press'' to bring Clemens to New York.

In no uncertain terms, the Yankee GM indicated that his team badly covets Clemens if, as expected, the future Hall of Famer wants to keep pitching.

Speaking after the official press conference welcoming Pettitte, Cashman praised the Rocket for his tenure in The Bronx from 1999-2003.

It was a glowing, flowing soliloquy that proved the Bombers have already loaded up their welcome wagon, and they're willing to steer it to Houston.

"If Roger is interested in coming to New York, I'd love to talk to him,'' Cashman began. "He had a huge impact on this organization.

"It was a trade I pushed hard on back in the day. And he came in here (in 1999) and not only delivered a huge performance on the field but also had a major impact within the clubhouse.

"And he cared a great deal not just about the young guys on the come, but he cared about his teammates and he cared about the people within his work environment, the staff members and things of that nature.

"So he's kind of like your perfect employee. You hire a player, he comes with all these other attributes ... He's one of the game's greatest that have ever played, and he had such a positive impact.''

On Wednesday, Clemens' agent Randy Hendricks told the Houston Chronicle that it was a better than 50/50 chance that the 44-year-old righty would pitch again for the Astros, Red Sox or Yankees. Pettitte, who signed a one-year, $16 million deal with a player option for 2008 in December, hopes it's New York.

"It's amazing to me that he still wants to pitch, but he does,'' Pettitte said. "It's like he's 20, and he's got an unbelievable amount of energy.

You add Roger Clemens to your staff ... as far as I'm concerned, he's the greatest pitcher to ever play the game. Would that be great? Does he know I would love that? Of course.

"And when you add him, your expectations are even higher. So from that standpoint, that would be wonderful.''

Pettitte, though, wouldn't feel comfortable recruiting the Rocket to the Big Apple, where he won his only two World Series rings in 1999 and 2000 (Pettitte was also on the 1996 and 1998 clubs).

"I would never try to do that to him,'' he said. "That's his decision, decisions he needs to make in his life.''

The two played golf during the past week, and the seven-time Cy Young Award winner apparently won't be pitching the entire season, according to Pettitte.

"I don't know exactly what he wants to do, but I would think spring training would definitely - probably - be out,'' Pettitte said. "I don't think he's thinking he's going to be heading to camp anywhere in the next three weeks.''

Cashman wouldn't speculate on what Clemens' schedule would be if he was a Yankee. Last year, the Astros let him come and go as he pleased on days he didn't pitch. It seems likely the Yankees would not allow that.

"It's wasted energy for me to discuss what potentially we would or wouldn't do,'' he said.

Cashman helped arrange a phone call between Pettitte and owner George Steinbrenner yesterday, according to spokesman Howard Rubenstein.

"I'm happy you're back,'' The Boss told the pitcher. "Do the job for us. I'm counting on you.''

"I'll be prepared to do it,'' Pettitte replied.

The Boss came away elated, Rubenstein said. Imagine how he'll feel if Cashman's full-court press on Clemens works.

michael.morrissey@nypost.com

Barry Bonds: Mark Sweeney Did Not Supply Amphetamines - AP

Bonds: Sweeney not involved in alleged failed drug test
Associated Press


SAN FRANCISCO -- Barry Bonds said he did not get amphetamines from teammate Mark Sweeney, but did not deny a report Thursday saying he tested positive for the drugs last season.

According to a story in the New York Daily News, the San Francisco slugger failed an amphetamines test in 2006. The newspaper reported that when first informed of the positive result, Bonds attributed it to a substance he had taken from Sweeney's locker.

Thursday, Bonds did not deny that but did apologize to Sweeney.

"[Sweeney] did not give me anything whatsoever and has nothing to do with this matter, contrary to recent reports."
--Barry Bonds
"He is both my teammate and my friend," Bonds said in a statement. "He did not give me anything whatsoever and has nothing to do with this matter, contrary to recent reports.

"I want to express my deepest apologies especially to Mark and his family as well as my other teammates, the San Francisco Giants organization and the fans," he said.

That's all the Giants star, shadowed by steroids allegations and only 22 home runs from breaking Hank Aaron's career home run record, said about the alleged positive drug test. Bonds has steadfastly denied used performance-enhancing drugs.

"Obviously, we're pleased that Barry has straightened this out," said Sweeney's agent, Barry Axelrod.

Bonds' reported positive test could be another snag in contract negotiations with the Giants. The sides reached a preliminary agreement on a $16 million, one-year contract Dec. 7, but the seven-time NL MVP still hasn't signed the deal or taken the mandatory physical that is part of the process.

The sides have been working to finalize complicated language in the contract that concerns the left fielder's compliance with team rules, as well as what would happen if he were to be indicted or have other legal troubles.

"Last night was the first time we heard of this recent accusation against Barry Bonds," the Giants said in the statement. "Under Major League Baseball's collective bargaining agreement with the Major League Baseball Players Association, clubs are not notified after a player receives a first positive test for amphetamines."

Rob Manfred, baseball's executive vice president for labor relations, refused comment, according to spokesman Rich Levin.

"I don't comment on the drug program, and I've never heard Barry Bonds blame anybody for anything," Gene Orza, the union's chief operating officer, said in an e-mail to The Associated Press.

San Francisco's front office and fan base long have stood by Bonds through his off-the-field problems and injuries. So have his teammates, deciding in spring training last year to support him every step of the way.

"There are so many substances out there right now you don't know what you should take or what you should not," Giants shortstop Omar Vizquel said Thursday. "Right now, I'm afraid to take vitamins for the same reason. You don't know what's going to be positive or what's going to be negative. The best way for players is to stay natural. Anything with chemicals in it can be bad. I know what I do. I don't know what the other guys do, and I don't really care.

"I tell the younger guys, but you don't need to be telling Barry Bonds and Mark Sweeney what they should take or what they should not."

There's a long history of amphetamines -- or speed and more commonly called "greenies" in the baseball world -- fueling generations of baseball players. Many turned to the stimulants for a way to get pepped up when their bodies couldn't do so on their own during a long season.

The pills, widely used even until recently, helped with energy for day games following night games and other times when players were short on sleep, such as after a long cross-country flight.

Baseball banned the uppers for the first time starting last season. A player is not identified until after failing two amphetamines tests, which also results in a 25-game suspension. The first failed steroids test, by comparison, is a 50-game suspension.

A first amphetamines offense, however, does require six additional drug tests over the following six months.

Baseball commissioner Bud Selig wouldn't address the report directly.

"Amphetamines have been around for seven or eight decades and this is the first time on the advice of doctors, trainers and everybody else that we dealt with it," he said. "We banned amphetamines and that's very significant and we're going to continue to monitor it all very closely."

Selig did say management and the union discussed the report Thursday.''

"I think maybe they have some suspicion on how it leaked out," he said.

Bonds did not appeal the positive test, according to the Daily News, which said Sweeney learned of Bonds' positive test from Orza. The newspaper reported Orza told Sweeney he should remove any troublesome substances from his locker and should not share said substances. Sweeney then said there was nothing of concern in his locker.

Before Bonds' statement, Axelrod told the AP that his client received a call informing him that his name had come up in regard to the testing.

"He responded at that time ... he did not give anything to anybody and he doesn't have anything illegal," Axelrod said. "That was the end of it, as far as we were concerned, until yesterday. We thought it was just a sort of procedural thing."

A federal grand jury is investigating whether Bonds perjured himself when he testified in 2003 in the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative steroid distribution case that he hadn't knowingly taken any performance-enhancing drugs. He told that 2003 grand jury he believed his trainer, Greg Anderson, had given him flaxseed oil and arthritic balm, not steroids.

Bonds, who's coming off October surgery on his troublesome left elbow, played regularly in 2006.

After missing all but 14 games in 2005 following three operations on his right knee, Bonds batted .270 with 26 homers and 77 RBIs in 130 games last year. He passed Babe Ruth to move into second place on the career home run list May 28.

Bonds has spent 14 of his 21 big league seasons with San Francisco and helped the Giants draw 3 million fans in all seven seasons with them. The team is counting on him to be part of the hype leading up to its hosting of the All-Star game in July.

Bonds said he noticed an improved vibe in the clubhouse last season with the additions of Steve Finley, Sweeney and Todd Greene. The slugger was more sociable too, playing cards or chess with his teammates or trainers before games -- and even making a rare appearance in the team photo.

Bonds and Sweeney appeared to be good friends, with Sweeney speaking to the slugger by phone recently this offseason.

"This year we had the best chemistry on the team. I felt like the team was clicking," Vizquel said. "It's sad a stupid instance like this might rupture something that was going pretty good. I don't think the players will turn on each other. We are a veteran team. We should know what [substance] is good and what is bad."

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press

The Baseball Hall Of Fame Call Arrives for Gwynn, Ripken- MLB.com

Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gwynn are quintessential examples of how the game should be played both on and off the field. For their outstanding achievements they will both be inducted into Cooperstown this Summer.

First ballot players to be inducted into Hall of Fame on July 29
By Barry M. Bloom / MLB.com

NEW YORK -- Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. will be forever joined at the hip. They co-existed during the same era, playing their entire careers near their hometowns for a single Major League team, while dominating their respective leagues.

On Tuesday, they were elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame on their first tries, both having been selected with nearly the highest vote percentages in history -- Ripken finishing third behind Tom Seaver and Nolan Ryan, while Gwynn nestled in at seventh.

"To me, the numbers and the stats, they're overwhelming," said Ripken, the Baltimore Orioles star who grew up in nearby Aberdeen, Md., and received an all-time high 537 votes on the record 545 ballots cast. "I really didn't get caught up in wanting to be unanimous or wanting to have the most. I'm very content to be voted in."

Gwynn, who grew up in Long Beach, Calif., and played 20 seasons down the freeway for the San Diego Padres, received 532 votes, the second most in history.

Gwynn, who won a record-tying eight National League batting titles, and Ripken, who shattered Lou Gehrig's record by playing in 2,632 consecutive games, will be inducted at Cooperstown on July 29. They will be joined by any candidates elected in the Hall of Fame Veterans Committee election, the results of which will be announced on Feb. 27.

Ripken garnered 98.53 percent of the vote from veteran members of the Baseball Writers' Association of America, the most for a position player. Ripken finished behind Seaver (98.83 in 1992) and Ryan (98.79 in 1999). Gwynn's percentage of 97.6 ranks directly behind Ty Cobb, George Brett and Hank Aaron, pretty good company.

"These percentages started to concern me a bit," Gwynn said during a conference call. "I feel guilty enough as it is being able to get in, while other guys can't. I was hoping to be in the low 90s and I could go about my business. I didn't want to be close to unanimous. I'm glad it worked out the way it did."

Mark McGwire, also a ballot newcomer, fell well short of election, his name appearing on less than a quarter of the ballots cast, two of which were left completely blank.

Gwynn said McGwire is a Hall of Famer and is being made the scapegoat for what transpired during the years when many suspect that performance-enhancing drugs were used liberally throughout Major League Baseball.

"You all knew about it," said Gwynn, referring to the media. "The players knew it and the owners knew it. But nobody did anything about it."

Ripken was hardly as vociferous

"I don't think it's my place [to give an opinion]," Ripken said during his conference call. "I know that it exists and [the fact] that it's a story doesn't bother me one bit. But when I sit and look at myself, I don't think it's my place to cast judgment. I honestly believe the truth will be known. But right now we're dealing with an awful lot of assumptions and speculation and not a lot of facts."

It was a day of good news and bad news for Rich "Goose" Gossage, the reliever who is creeping ever so close to his day in the Cooperstown sun. The bad news is that this time, Gossage came up 21 votes shy of the 75 percent needed to ascend to the Hall. The good news is that with a much thinner ballot next year, Gossage seems to be on the cusp. In 2008, Tim Raines and David Justice are the cream of the freshman class.

On the ballot for the eighth year, the Goose came in at 71.2 percent, an increase from his 64.6 percent a year ago. In the history of the BBWAA Hall of Fame voting, no candidate has ever received at least 70 percent in an election without eventually gaining a place in Cooperstown. Most recently, Don Sutton (73.2 percent in 1997) and Gaylord Perry (72.1 percent) were elected the very next year.

McGwire received enough votes to carry him over until 2008, but his 23.5 percent (128 votes) was a resounding rejection from an electorate which suspected that the slugger, who finished his 16-year career with 583 homers, was part of Major League Baseball's so-called steroid era.

Of the 17 first-timers on the ballot, only McGwire and Harold Baines received enough votes to carry them over. Five years after he retires, a player has 15 years of eligibility on the ballot, but he must receive at least 5 percent of the vote each year to maintain that status.

In another obvious statement, Jose Canseco (who hit 462 homers) and the late Ken Caminiti (who was named the 1996 National League Most Valuable Player as a member of the Padres), both didn't receive the requisite vote to remain on the ballot. Both players publicly admitted the use of steroids during their playing days.

Canseco, a Bash Brother in Oakland with McGwire, received six votes. Caminiti, who died from a drug overdose in 2004, got two.

With the addition of Gwynn and Ripken to the Hall, 280 members have now been elected, including 198 former Major League players -- 105 of them by BBWAA, whose voters must have at least 10 years of consecutive membership to receive a ballot.

Jim Rice and Andre Dawson, who like Gossage, received more than 60 percent of the vote last year, both lost a little ground. Rice dropped from 64.8 percent last year to 63.5 percent this year, while Dawson slumped from 61 percent in 2006 to 56.7 percent this time around.

From the outset, though, Gwynn and Ripken were dead-bang winners.

Gwynn played for the 1984 and 1998 pennant-winning Padres and considers his home run at Yankee Stadium in Game 1 of the 1998 World Series to be the highlight of his stellar career.

Gwynn tied Honus Wagner for the most NL batting titles in history, and his career-high .394 average during the strike-shortened 1994 season is the highest in the past 65 years -- since Ted Williams became the last of the .400 hitters when he batted .406 to lead the American League in 1941.

In addition, Gwynn was a 15-time NL All-Star who had 3,141 hits, batted .338 and won five Gold Gloves as a right fielder in his 20 Major League seasons, all played with the San Diego Padres.

But he hit only 135 homers and knocked in just 1,138 runs in 2,440 games, both stats he considered to be personal shortcomings. He also never played a complete 162-game season.

"I thought I was going to get penalized," Gwynn said. "I didn't win any championships. I didn't hit a whole lot of home runs. I didn't drive in a whole lot of people. To be one of those lucky ones to get in is a blessing."

In contrast, Ripken, a shortstop and third baseman, didn't miss a game from May 30, 1982, to Sept. 20, 1998, shattering the record consecutive game streak of 2,130 once held by Gehrig, the Yankees first baseman. Ripken had 3,184 hits -- including 431 home runs -- batted .276, was twice an AL Most Valuable Player (1983 and 1991), was a 19-time AL All-Star, and won two Gold Gloves.

His Orioles defeated the Phillies in five games to win the 1983 World Series, with Ripken at short, snaring the series-ending line drive to short hit by Garry Maddox. But Ripken's Baltimore squad never again played in the Fall Classic during the course of his 21-year career.

Certainly, he captivated the hearts of baseball fans everywhere on the night of Sept. 7, 1995, when the Iron Man slipped past the Iron Horse at Camden Yards. That night, after the game against the Angels became official in the fifth inning, Ripken circled the stadium slapping hands with many of the fans as a never-ending cacophony of cheers rained down on him.

"That was completely spontaneous," Ripken said about the lap. "It was Bobby [Bonilla] and Rafael Palmeiro who pushed me out of the dugout and said, 'Hey, if you don't do a lap around this thing, we're never going to get this game re-started.' As I started to do it, the celebration of 50,000 became very one-on-one and personal. Catching the last out of the World Series was the best feeling because there was a sense of fulfillment, completion and joy.

"But the best human experience of my life was that lap. At the end of it, I couldn't have cared less if that game got started again. This [Hall of Fame honor] is a wonderful moment and a wonderful feeling."

Barry M. Bloom is a national reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Available pitchers left on the market

By David
Kaye

As the baseball off season slowly comes to an end, many players are still looking for work.

The Colorado Rockies are always in the market for starting pitching, and if Brian Lawrence gets his wish he will be part of Colorado's starting rotation this Spring. The former San Diego Padre is patiently awaiting a decision by the Rockies. In three Major League seasons Lawrence has a record of 49 and 61 to go along with a 4.10 ERA.

It appears that right hander Jeff Weaver will not be signing with the Mets this off season. After being part of the St.Louis team that defeated the Mets in the NLCS, the 8 year veteran is ''highly unlikely'' to sign with the defending NL East champions.

Omar Minaya and the Mets will be forced to continue their path of finding another quality starter. With Pedro Martinez out until mid season, New York must go with a shaky starting five. Minaya has the money to shell out, but he is yet to find the right guy. I envision the Mets acquiring a proven starting pitcher via a trade. Unfortunately, the Mets are more than likely going to have to part ways with their top prospect Lastings Milledge.

After adding two starters to their pitching staff this Winter[Freddy Garcia and Adam Eaton], the Philadelphia Phillies have a surplus of arms. The player that they would like to trade away is veteran Jon Lieber. At the age of 36, Lieber would be a fine addition to a team in need of a number four or five starter. Several clubs including the Rangers, Brewers, and Padres have called to ask about trading for the former second round pick out of South Alabama.

Lastly, the deal to send Randy Johnson back to the Diamondbacks was finalized yesterday. The 43 year old signed a two-year deal worth a comfortable $26 million. The Big Unit will make $4 million this season, $10 million in 2008, and the last $12 million is counted in as a signing bonus.

Consider the fact that Johnson is receiving the $12 million bonus after posting an ERA of 5 , and most recently having back surgery. What happened to the day when your salary was based on performance and not your track record?

Miami ballpark deal progressing- MLB.com

The possibility of the Marlins staying in Miami is becoming more of a reality. Despite low attendance numbers year after year, the Fish continue to bring a winning attitude to South Florida.

DuPuy says finishing details is 'highest priority'
By Barry M. Bloom / MLB.com

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. -- Major League Baseball is closing in on finalizing a new ballpark deal in downtown Miami that would keep the Marlins in South Florida for a generation, the sport's No. 2 official said on Saturday night, just prior to the annual dinner held by the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation at a local hotel.

The ballpark, replete with a retractable roof, would be located in a redevelopment district just miles inland from the American Airlines Arena, which is located on the banks of Biscayne Bay.

"Our highest priority this winter is to get a ballpark deal done in Miami," Bob DuPuy, Major League Baseball's president and chief operating officer, told MLB.com. "We've had tremendous cooperation from the county manager and the mayor. There have been several meetings and we are really optimistic we can get this done. There's a will to get this done. It's necessary for the Marlins. We're committed to baseball remaining in South Florida."

The ballpark is projected to be funded in a 60-40 percent public-private partnership between the city of Miami-Dade County and the Marlins, DuPuy said, with the public funding coming from hotel-motel, facility and redevelopment district taxes. A sales or income tax that would directly affect Miami-Dade County citizens is not contemplated nor is state money at the moment.

The deal wouldn't have to go to a public vote, but it would have to be approved by the Miami City Council and the Miami-Dade County Board of Supervisors, added DuPuy, who has become the point man for MLB and the Marlins on the project.

In South Florida, after a deal in Miami to build the facility on land near the Orange Bowl fell through several years ago when a $30 million gap in the project's cost couldn't be closed, the Marlins were allowed to explore moving the franchise to another state. But a possible shift to San Antonio was essentially nixed by MLB, which has decided to keep the team where it is.

A ballpark proposal from nearby Hialeah seems to have stimulated resolve in Miami for building the stadium there.

Asked if a deal was imminent, DuPuy stopped short of that assessment.

"Imminent is a difficult word," he said. "Everyone is working very hard and I do believe everyone is committed to getting it done. So I would hope that this winter we could finally bring it to resolution."

Since 2002, MLB's stadium efforts have been bifurcated, to say the least, between Montreal/Washington, D.C., Minnesota, Oakland and Florida. But each of the first three situations now seemed to be resolved.

Since the Marlins expanded into the National League in 1993, they have played in what is now called Dolphin Stadium, an open-air football facility that is home to the NFL's Miami Dolphins. The baseball team has a lease to play there through 2010, but has been told it must find a new venue by 2011.

The Marlins have won the World Series twice in their short existence (1997 and 2003), but three separate ownership groups have found it nearly impossible over the past decade to fund and build a new ballpark in South Florida, until now.

Jeffery Loria and his group of minority partners purchased the Marlins on Feb. 15, 2002. Loria had previously owned the Expos, but he and president David Samson failed to get a new stadium in Montreal to save that franchise for Quebec. At the same time, MLB purchased the Expos from Loria, John Henry, the previous Marlins owner, became part of a group that bought the Red Sox.

Despite defeating the Yankees to win the 2003 World Series, Samson claimed that the Marlins were losing in excess of $30 million a year. After the Miami stadium deal collapsed in 2005, Loria ordered the player payroll cut, and it was reduced to $15 million this past season.

Though the Marlins were surprisingly competitive, they drew a National League low 1,165,120 at home, well below the league average of 2,598,741. They attracted a high of 3,064,847 during their inaugural 1993 season, but since then have only exceeded 2 million once -- in 1997.

The current stadium is located north of downtown Miami not far from Fort Lauderdale. DuPuy said the Marlins need a ballpark that has a retractable roof, giving fans certainty that games will be played during summer months in South Florida when the heat and humidity is a constant and showers are always expected.

"It's a vertical audience in South Florida," DuPuy said. "In order to draw fans down to Miami from (Broward County) they need to know that the game is going to start on time and be over in two to three hours. That's the opinion of MLB and that's the opinion of the Marlins. A retractable roof is essential in making this situation work."

Barry M. Bloom is a national reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

News around Major League Baseball

By David
Kaye

Apparently, Astros management read my December 27th article on the availability of second basemen Mark Loretta and signed him to a one-year, $2.5 million contract. His deal could end up being worth $3.5 million if the veteran meets incentives.

Houston is acquiring a versatile and proven player who will make a nice impact both with the bat and glove. Loretta understands that he's been brought in as a utility player, but as he said ''I feel comfortable with the organization.''

Loretta's former team the Boston Red Sox signed 28 year old pitcher Joel Pineiro to a one-year deal. The right-hander has spent all of his seven Major League seasons with the Seattle Mariners, but over the past several seasons he has struggled to get the job done.

Over the past three seasons Pineiro's ERA has been 4.67, 5.62 and 6.36. During the same span he compiled only 21 wins. Conversely, he won a total of 30 games and had a 3.51 ERA during the 2002 and 2003 seasons combined. The Red Sox's are hoping that he will become their closer for the upcoming season. Pineiro has even come out and said ''That starting thing, that's in the past.'' If Boston is to return to the playoffs they will need Joel to be lights out in the bullpen.

The Yankees inked veteran first basemen Doug Mientkiewicz to a one-year, $ 1.5 million contract. The former Gold Glove Award winner with the Twins will primarily be used as a defensive specialists at first. Mientkiewicz comes to the Bronx with postseason experience as he won a World Series with the Red Sox in 2004.

Big Unit is headed back to Arizona

By David
Kaye

The two year marriage between Randy Johnson and the New York Yankees officially ended on Thursday as New York traded the future Hall of Famer to the Diamondbacks. Johnson failed in his attempt to bring a 27th World Championship to the Bronx, and after a less than impressive 2006 campaign where he battled injury and saw his ERA balloon to five , it was time for the eight time All Star to change teams.

Johnson will have the opportunity to pitch closer to home and most importantly, he will be joining the team that he enjoyed the most success with during his illustrious Major League career. During his six years in the desert he compiled a 103 and 49 record to go along with a 2.80 ERA. He won the NL Cy Young award four years in a row[1999-2002] and he helped the D-backs win their first World Championship in 2001. He did so well against the Yankees that he was awarded Co-MVP of the World Series along with former teammate Curt Schilling.

For New York, they acquired Minor League shortstop Alberto Gonzalez, Minor League pitchers Steven Jackson and Ross Ohlendorf, and 8 year veteran reliever Luis Vizcaino. This deal makes perfect sense for the Bronx Bombers because the Big Unit is near the tail end of his career, his enormous salary will not be their full responsibility, and most importantly they continue to add young pitching prospects.

The trading away of veterans Gary Sheffield and Randy Johnson have yielded the Yankees five pitching prospects. Through the recent deals Brian Cashman is displaying that the way to win is by having young talent on your team.

He realized that spending ridiculous amounts of money over the past six seasons has only generated New York AL East crowns and not that coveted World Series ring. With the return of the beloved Andy Pettitte and the recent moves to acquire quality pitching prospects, the Yankees are telling the baseball world that they are improving for the long run.

In years to come it will be a crazy site to see the Yankees as a team who still has the money to spend, and at the same time has impressive young players in the Minors who are ready to make a major impact on the Major League level. I don't know about you, but does this remind you of the time period in the early 90's when the Yankees were bringing up players such as Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, Andy Pettitte, Bernie Williams and Mariano Rivera from the Minor Leagues? All they went onto to do was bring New York fans six World Series appearances and four World Series wins.

Huff reportedly agrees to join O's- MLB.com

Aubrey Huff will be an adequate addition to a mediocre Baltimore team, but he will not be the fixture to the O's lineup.

Huff is a versatile slugger who will greatly benefit from the short porch in right field at Camden Yards, but his offensive production has been on the decline since 2003.

Since batting .311 and having 34 homers, 107 runs batted in, 34 doubles and a .555 Slugging percentage during that season, he has had a .297, .261 and .267 average, along with 29, 22 and 21 home runs, 104, 92 and 76 runs batted in, 27, 26 and 25 doubles and a Slugging percentage that bottomed out at .428 in 2005.


Left-handed bat set for three-year deal, pending physical
By Spencer Fordin / MLB.com

BALTIMORE -- The Orioles are zeroing in on their biggest move of the offseason. The Baltimore Sun has reported that the club has reached terms on a three-year contract with free agent Aubrey Huff, who would provide the power bat Baltimore has been searching for all winter.

There was no immediate confirmation from team officials, but the Sun reported that the deal is for three years and $20 million. Huff would need to take a physical next week, and if everything checked out, would be introduced to the public shortly thereafter. If he signs, he's expected to split time between the outfield, first base and designated hitter.

Huff can also play third base, giving manager Sam Perlozzo some flexibility. In all likelihood, the veteran would supplement newly acquired left fielder Jay Payton and spell both DH Jay Gibbons and first baseman Kevin Millar. The 30-year-old's presence would also allow Payton to slide to center field against tough left-handed pitchers.

Huff has spent most of his career in the American League East. He split last season between Tampa Bay and Houston, but the balance of his seven-year career was spent as a Devil Ray. Huff, who has hit at least 20 home runs in five straight seasons, has hit more homers against Baltimore (20) than any other big-league team.

The former University of Miami star will be counted on to provide help against southpaws -- one of Baltimore's main weaknesses -- but for his career, he's traditionally fared better against right-handers. Huff is a .288 hitter with a .350 on-base mark and a .498 slugging percentage against righties, though all three numbers dip against lefties.

The Orioles haven't had two hitters with 30 home runs since the 1996 season, and last year, they didn't have anyone meet that milestone. Shortstop Miguel Tejada was the team leader with 24 homers, and Huff will likely bat behind him next season. Baltimore had previously pursued free agents Alfonso Soriano and Carlos Lee for that slot.

Both Lee and Soriano signed mega-deals that dwarf the one Huff will reportedly get. Baltimore has been active, though, spending more than $40 million on a bullpen overhaul. The Orioles also traded rookie reliever Chris Britton to the Yankees for starter Jaret Wright and cash considerations and signed Payton to flesh out the outfield depth.

After Huff, Baltimore may be done signing free agents for the winter, but there's still at least one potential deal looming. Last year's Opening Day starter, Rodrigo Lopez, is on the trade block. The Orioles had been shopping him for a power bat, but if the Huff deal becomes official, they might be persuaded to settle for an impact prospect instead. Otherwise, Lopez would move to the bullpen.

The Orioles may also consider signing some of their arbitration eligible players to multi-year extensions. Left-hander Erik Bedard and second baseman Brian Roberts are the most likely candidates, but outfielder Corey Patterson and right-hander Daniel Cabrera could also be extended. Baltimore will start making those decisions shortly after the New Year.

Spencer Fordin is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

Yanks, D-Backs close to Unit deal- NY Daily News

It would be best for the Yankees and pitcher Randy Johnson to split ties before the start of the new season. Hopefully, a deal can get struck between Arizona and New York.

BY BILL MADDEN and
ANTHONY McCARRON

DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITERS

The Diamondbacks have been the most aggressive suitors for Randy Johnson and sources close to the negotiations said yesterday that the Yankees and Arizona could complete a trade to send Johnson back to the desert before next week.

The Diamondbacks, who view Johnson as a gate attraction, want to talk to the Big Unit about a contract extension, a source said. That would give Arizona a chance to reap the attendance and buzz benefits of Johnson going for his 300th victory - he will enter next season with 280 wins.

The Yankees, meanwhile, have their eyes on a package of Arizona pitching prospects. The Diamondbacks are loaded with young talent and if the Yankees send Johnson home to Arizona - Johnson's home is in the Phoenix suburb of Paradise Valley - they'd like to get at least two of the following three pitchers: Dustin Nippert, Micah Owings and Ross Ohlendorf.

Nippert, 25, is a 6-8 righthander who was 13-8 with a 4.87 ERA in Triple-A last season and lost both his major league starts. Owings, a 6-5 righty, was 6-2 at Double-A and 10-0 at Triple-A. Ohlendorf, a 6-4 righty, spent most of last season in Double-A, going 10-8 with a 3.29 ERA. Ohlendorf had 125 strikeouts and only 29 walks in 177-2/3 innings.

The Padres, believed to be offering reliever Scott Linebrink, also have been involved, but the Yankees apparently prefer the players they might be able to pry from the Diamondbacks. While talks are ongoing, the Yankees have not brought a deal to Johnson and his agents to approve - Johnson has a full no-trade clause in his contract.

Johnson, who is coming off back surgery, did not request a trade, but the Yankees began discussions with other clubs after GM Brian Cashman called Johnson to offer condolences after Johnson's older brother died recently. During the call, Johnson told the GM it was important to be close to his family.

The Yankees don't feel that trading Johnson is a necessity, but they're willing to listen, and several baseball officials have said privately recently that the Yankees are working diligently to consummate a deal.

While the Yankees have been pursuing pitchers in their talks with the D-Backs, Padres and other West Coast teams, it's believed they have made progress in their plans for the spare parts they need at first base and utility infielder. A source said the Yankees are zeroing in on Doug Mientkiewicz to play first while Jason Giambi is the designated hitter, even though Mientkiewicz is a lefthanded batter.

Also, the source said, Mark Loretta may be the Yankees' first choice to be a utility infielder. Loretta had hoped to find a job as a regular second baseman, but hasn't.

Barry Zito is headed to the San Francisco Giants

By David
Kaye

According to reports Barry Zito is expected to sign with the San Francisco Giants. Many teams including the Rangers, Mets, Mariners and Yankees were in the running for the long time Oakland Athletic, but he has decided to remain in the Bay Area.

The two time all star will sign a seven year, $126 million dollar contract. This is going to be the largest deal ever given to a pitcher in baseball history and Zito can make up to $144 million if his option for 2014 is picked up by the Giants.

This is a major acquisition for the Giants and general manger Brian Sabean who have been pretty quiet on the Zito front up until now. The deal makes sense for the left hander because he already lives in San Francisco and he was offered $42 million more by his Giants, than he was by the Texas Rangers.

With Zito headed to the Giants the NL West becomes very ambigious. Even with a new manager and ace pitcher,the Giants still find themselves
a step behind of the competition in the tough NL West.The Rockies and Diamondbacks are two teams who have installed a great foundation for the future, but are still several years away from being serious contenders.
Still, the Padres and Dodgers remain the front runners for the division crown.

Finally, the biggest pitcher on the market has signed and the baseball off season can begin to slow down with no major players left on the market.

How is Mark Loretta still a free agent?

By David
Kaye

I struggle to understand how second basemen Mark Loretta is still avaliable on the market. The 12 year veteran is a career .299 hitter and a person who would make a great fit with many teams as their starting second basemen.

The Northwestern graduate played with the Red Sox' last season and was selected to his second all star game in the last three seasons. With a .987 career fielding percentage Loretta is excellent with the glove, but more importantly he's a great guy to have in the clubhouse.

Loretta comes off as having a great demenor and he would be an excellent match for a team who has a young second basemen that needs mentoring. Still, based on his play on the field he deserves to start.

He might not have the power of a Chase Utley, but he should not be demoted to a utility role.The Yankees were looking at Loretta for a utility position and at the current time they seem like the front runner for his services.

The Texas Rangers were also eyeing Loretta as a utility player. If signed, they hope that he can fill the void left by Mark DeRosa's departure. Loretta played a few games at first base for the Red Sox' last season and has also played at shortstop in his career. The only negative for him is that he has never played the outfield.

The former Silver Slugger award winner lead all American League second basemen with 181 hits last season and he proved his durability as he played in 155 games.

Whereever Loretta ends up next season, he will be a productive and consistent hitter.

Baseball salary average up 9 percent to nearly $2.7 million

The inflation of baseball salaries is mind puzzling to me, but this years off season has shown us that salaries will only continue to increase.

By RONALD BLUM, AP Baseball Writer
December 20, 2006

NEW YORK (AP) -- Baseball salaries were booming even before the free-agent escalation that began more than a month ago.

The average salary shot up 9 percent this year to $2,699,292, according to final figures released Wednesday by the Major League Baseball Players Association. The increase was the highest since a 12.8 percent rise in 2001 and makes it likely the $3 million mark will be broken next year or in 2008.

"The increase in the average salary is a reflection of the growth in overall industry revenues, and that while the sport still has significant economic challenges, the increased average is a reflection of the level of the talent on the field," said Bob DuPuy, baseball's chief operating officer.

Baseball salaries are soaring, with Alfonso Soriano ($136 million), Vernon Wells ($126 million) and Carlos Lee ($100 million) agreeing to nine-figure deals since the end of the season, boosting baseball's total of $100 million contracts to 11.

Still, no one has approached Alex Rodriguez's record $252 million, 10-year contract, agreed to after the 2000 season.

The New York Yankees had the highest average salary for the eighth consecutive season, but their average dropped to $6.95 million from a record $7.39 million the previous year.

Houston was second at $4.28 million, up from ninth place in 2005. Boston was third at $3.99 million, down from $4.17 million the previous season, followed by the New York Mets ($3.86 million), the Chicago White Sox ($3.81 million) and the World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals ($3.78 million).

The AL champion Detroit Tigers were ninth at $3.06 million, up from 15th.

Florida's average of $594,722 was the lowest in the major leagues since 1999, when Kansas City was at $534,460, the Marlins at $561,111 and Montreal at $572,290.

Among the teams with the 10 highest averages, only San Francisco ($3.8 million) had a losing record (76-85). Among clubs with the 12 lowest averages, the only one with a winning record was Toronto (87-75).

Third basemen had the highest average among positions ($5.87 million), followed by first basemen ($5.78 million), designated hitters ($5.59 million), outfielders ($4.88 million), starting pitchers ($4.87 million), shortstops ($4.06 million), second basemen ($2.79 million) and relievers ($1.43 million).

Figures were based on Aug. 31 rosters and disabled lists and do not account for money owed to released players or payments teams make or receive to cover parts of salaries of players who have been traded.

The commissioner's office has not computed its final figure, which usually differs from that of the union because of calculation methods.

Yankees hit with $26 million luxury tax, raising total to nearly $98 million

Unfortunately, money does not buy World Championships and the Yankees have learnt that the hard way over the past six seasons.

By RONALD BLUM, AP Baseball Writer
December 23, 2006

NEW YORK (AP) -- World Series titles don't come to Yankee Stadium these days, just tax bills.

The Yankees were slapped with a $26 million luxury tax by the commissioner's office Friday, raising New York's total to $97.75 million over the last four years.

Boston, which missed the playoffs, was the only other team over the tax threshold and will pay $497,549.

New York hasn't won the World Series since 2000, and was knocked out in the first round of the playoffs for the second straight year. The Yankees paid tax in all four seasons of the just-expired collective-bargaining agreement: $11.8 million in 2003, $26 million in 2004 and $34 million for last year.

While the Yankees' spending on players may have decreased because of the tax, the team says any dip was slight.

"I would say it has an effect," Yankees president Randy Levine said. "But at the end of the day, it's always been George Steinbrenner's philosophy to win. If a difference-maker is attainable, the Boss goes and gets him."

At the center of labor negotiations in 2002, the luxury tax was paid by only three teams over the four seasons, with the Red Sox owing $7.8 million and the Anaheim/Los Angeles Angels $927,057.

Payments are due at the commissioner's office by Jan. 31. Commissioner Bud Selig concluded the tax achieved the result management wanted.

"I think it did. I really think, frankly, everything that we did pretty well came out to its projection," he said.

New York's bill decreased this year because its payroll, as calculated for the tax, declined from $212.9 million to $201.5 million and the threshold for where the tax began increased from $128 million to $136.5 million. Under the new labor contract, the threshold for the tax rises to $148 million next year.

For luxury tax purposes, the average annual values of contracts are used and benefits are included.

"The luxury tax is not the something the players are in love with because its purpose is to cause people to have an extra cost when they sign a player," union head Donald Fehr said. "Obviously we were prepared to live with it during the term of the last agreement and we got what we expect will be appropriate modifications this time.

"We didn't really envision specific numbers. What we were hoping was that we would see a circumstance in which it did not have a meaningful adverse effect on the player market, and obviously you have to judge that year by year."

Using the regular method of accounting, the Yankees finished with a $207.5 million payroll for their 40-man roster, according to final figures released Friday by the commissioner's office, up from $206.6 million in 2005.

Boston was a distant second this year at $137.5 million, followed by the New York Mets ($116.6 million), Houston ($107.7 million), the Los Angeles Dodgers ($107.2 million) and the Los Angeles Angels ($104 million).
The World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals were 10th at $96.1 million, and the AL champion Detroit Tigers were 14th at $89.8 million.

Florida, last at $21.1 million, had less than half the payroll of Pittsburgh, 28th at $43.4 million. Tampa Bay was in between them at $36.4 million.

Management calculated the average salary at $2,642,915. The players' association, whose calculation method differs slightly, had the average at $2,699,292 in its annual report this week.

Jeff Suppan and Brandon McCarthy find new homes for the holidays

By David
Kaye

Last years NLCS MVP Jeff Suppan agreed to a four year deal worth $42 million with the Milwaukee Brewers today. Yesterday, former White Sox pitcher Brandon McCarthy was traded to the Texas Rangers in a five player deal.

Several teams including the Mets, Pirates and Suppan's former team the St.Louis Cardinals were in the hunt for Suppan's services , but the 12 year veteran decided to go where the money was and sign with the Brew crew. With the addition of Suppan, the Brewers now have an extremly solid starting rotation and one that will be able to compete in the tough NL Central.

Brandon McCarthy was acquired by the Rangers along with Minor Leaguer David Paisano for Minor Leaguers John Danks, Nick Masset and Jacob Rasner. In the view point of Texas general manager Jon Daniels ''this is one of the elite, young, now-ready, battle-tested pitchers in the game.''

McCarthy never seemed to find his place with the White Sox, but he will be an impactful addition to a Rangers starting rotation that is in desperate need of quality pitchers. Along with Kevin Milwood and Vicente Padilla, the Rangers have a decent starting three. Still, McCarthy has never started more than ten games in a season and he will need to demonstrate that he can hold up through an entire season.

Suppan was an extremly important signing for a young Brewers pitching staff because he brings stability, leadership and postseason experience. Brewers general manager Doug Melvin said ''We're jumping the gun a little bit, but we wanted to make an announcement before things leaked out.'' It's a certainty that Milwaukee over paid for the right hander, but they believe that they can win now and the addition of Suppan only increases their chances of making the playoffs.

Suppan was 12-2 in his career against the Brew crew and 5-0 at Miller Park. Luckily for them, Suppan will now be in charge of winning games for the Brewers and leading them to the postseason.

Dontrelle Willis is arrested on DUI charges

By David
Kaye

Just when you thought nothing could go wrong for the Marlins ace, he gets arrested early Friday morning on DUI charges in Miami.

Willis is the face of the Marlins franchise and has become an emerging star throughout baseball. He is one of the top left handed pitchers in the majors and is coming off of another productive season.

It's unfortunate that the soon to be 25 year old who has everything going for him had to commit such a foolish act. Under his attorney's advice he has not commented on the case, but as the days progress we should expect to hear a statement from the electrifying south paw.

I hope that this was only a minor bump in the road for Dontrelle Willis and that he will quickly return to the lovable pitcher that so many of us have become accustomed too.

Jeremy Bonderman remains a Tiger

By David
Kaye

Not too long ago Tigers starting pitcher Jeremy Bonderman lost 19 games, but this past season he lead his team to their first World Series appearance since 1984. It's fascinating how quickly a young pitcher can go from being one of the worst to one of the elite.

At only 24 years of age, Bonderman has transformed into one of the best young pitchers in the league. Still, it is unthinkable to believe that he can warrant $9.5 million per season. Despite having stellar talent, he has never won more than 14 games in a season or have an ERA under 4.08.

Bonderman could not have responded better to his new contract when he said''They gave me a good offer that will make my family
comfortable.''Sure, what man in their mid twenties would not want to be making nearly ten million per season and belong to one of, if not the best starting rotation in all of baseball.

Radke says goodbye to Twins- MLB.com

Long time Minnesota Twin pitcher Brad Radke retired this week after a productive 12 year big league career. He will be cemented in Twins history as one of their best and most likeable players to ever wear the uniform.


Veteran announces retirement at Tuesday press conference
By Kelly Thesier / MLB.com

• Radke highlight reel: 350K
• Radke through the years
• A look back at Radke's career highlights
• Molony: Consistency key for Radke

MINNEAPOLIS -- His eyes glistened with tears, but Brad Radke was determined not to make his retirement announcement on Tuesday afternoon a sad event.

"It's time to close this chapter and move on," Radke said with a few sniffles as he looked out at the crowd before him. "No tears. I don't want to see any tears from any of you. This should be a happy time for everyone."

It may be the start of another phase in Radke's life, but it was clear by the emotions on display at his retirement press conference that the veteran's departure was the end of a special period for the club.

"He's done just about everything you can ask here," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire told a packed room at the Metrodome. "It's been a pleasure giving him the ball and believe me, I never enjoyed taking it away from him. It's just always been a pleasure with Brad. We're not just losing a great pitcher, but we're losing a great person."

Radke's retirement was not a surprise as it had been talked about since the pitcher signed his last two-year deal with the club following the 2004 season. At the time, he felt that it would be his last contract, and he again echoed that sentiment earlier this spring.

The right-hander admitted that he considered pitching one more year, but after battling a torn labrum and a stress fracture in his right shoulder socket this past season, it was clear that the time to retire was now.

"I know my body real well, and this year I just totally ran out of gas," Radke said.

His numbers may not make him a Hall of Fame pitcher, but the impact that Radke had in Minnesota is hard to ignore. Having come to the club when the Twins were near the bottom of the American League to helping them rise to dominance in the AL Central, Radke certainly had an integral part in the organization's turnaround.

The latter part of the 90s was a dismal time for the Twins as the club was unable to record any winning seasons. It wasn't until 2001 when the team finally began turning a corner, and, of course, Radke, 34, was there for it all.

Twins general manager Terry Ryan spoke on Tuesday of what it meant to the team when Radke agreed to a four-year extension in 2000 to remain in Minnesota, despite all the down years that he had endured.

"It was a turning point in the franchise," Ryan said. "After Brad signed, many others have since followed. It kind of got us on our way."

And it was his legacy as the consistent, stoic leader that will remain etched in Twins fans' minds.

The best testament of Radke's will and his heart may have been the way that he battled through his injuries in his last season. Even when the pain was so great that Radke could barely even hold a ball between starts, the pitcher continued to pitch every fifth day as he was determined to finish out his career by helping his team win.

"All you want is a guy to go out and give you everything he's got," Gardenhire said. "And Brad proved that over and over again in his career, especially this past year. He was broken down, between innings he could barely throw the ball to home plate, but he went out and did it for his teammates. That pretty much says what Brad Radke is all about."

Radke's loyalty to the franchise was also something not often seen in baseball. It's safe to say that Radke is one of the last of a bygone era where players remain with one team for their entire career.

Even though Radke grew up in Florida, he often considered the Twins his hometown team. Radke was born in Eau Claire, Wis., and grew up attending Twins games every summer when he visited his family. So to be able to play for the Twins was something he considered a privilege.

And for him, Minnesota really did become home.

"It's hard to leave this family," Radke said. "These 12 years have been really special."
Family is something that the Twins organization is known for and there were many of Radke's former coaches, teammates and longtime personnel in attendance for his press conference. Former Twins manager Tom Kelly, former teammates Kent Hrbek, Paul Molitor, Terry Steinbach and current Twins pitchers Glen Perkins and Pat Neshek all took part in recognizing Radke's career.

It was such a profound moment for Radke that the normally quiet pitcher kept going on and on, trying to make sure that he thanked all those in attendance who helped him throughout his career. For his extended thank yous, Radke got his fair share of ribbing from the very same people that have spent years professing him to be their quiet leader.

"That's as much as I've heard come out of your mouth in 15 years," Ryan chided Radke during his speech.

And family is the main reason why Radke is stepping away now as he plans to spend more time with his wife, Heather, and their two sons, Kasey, 11, and Ryan, 7.

Exactly how Radke will be remembered will vary from person to person, but if the veteran right-hander had his say in his legacy, it would be fairly simple.

"I'd like to be known a guy that went out there and played with all of his heart," Radke said. "If you don't play this game with your heart, you shouldn't be playing. That's the way I went out every five days."

And it's the way that he went out on Tuesday.

Bagwell's career comes to a close- MLB.com

Major League Baseball saw one of their best players on and off the field retire last week as long time Houston Astro Jeff Bagwell hung up his boots. Bagwell was not only the face of the Astros franchise for the last 15 years because of his on the field contribution, but also for the kind of person he was when away from the game. He was an extremly respected and admirable man and one who will be greatly missed by his peers.

Four-time All-Star's performance leaves lasting effects
By Alyson Footer / MLB.com

Bagwell announces retirement: 350K
• Bagwell's career highlights: 350K
• Bagwell retrospective galleries: 1 2
• Molony: Why Bagwell is Hall of Fame caliber
• Key Bagwell moments, facts

HOUSTON -- After 15 seasons, Jeff Bagwell put an official end to his stellar career Friday, confirming what has been considered as inevitable for several months. Bagwell, the greatest hitter in the 45-year history of the franchise, announced that he is retiring from baseball.

Bagwell ends his career as the all-time club leader with 449 home runs, 1,529 RBIs and 1,401 walks. He recorded a lifetime batting average of .297, and he finished in the top 50 among all Major League players in seven categories: home runs, RBIs, extra-base hits, walks, slugging percentage, OPS and on-base percentage.

A four-time All-Star, Bagwell appeared in the mid-Summer Classic in 1994, '96, '97 and '99. He played in six postseasons and reached his first and only World Series in 2005, serving as the designated hitter in Games 1 and 2.

Bagwell's journey through his Hall of Fame-caliber career began in 1990. He was playing for the Double-A New Britain Red Sox, and in the middle of a game on Aug. 31, his manager, Butch Hobson, pulled him off the field.

Hobson broke the news quickly: Bagwell was headed to Houston, after the Red Sox traded him to the Astros for a much-needed middle reliever.

Bagwell, a native of nearby Killingworth, Conn. who had spent the past two years dreaming of playing third base for his beloved Red Sox, was speechless.

Houston? Texas? Several images popped to mind. Tumbleweeds. Horses. Cowboys. Here he was, steps away from wearing a Red Sox uniform, and now, this New England kid was headed for gosh-knows-where, as part of an organization he knew nothing about. And to make matters worse, he was traded for popular comic reliever Larry Andersen, whom the fans in the Bayou City were not pleased was leaving.

In Boston, the news was barely a blip on the transaction page. Bagwell was behind future Hall of Famer Wade Boggs and prospect Tim Naehring, and his departure from the organization did not elicit much of an outcry. One rather astute baseball observer, however, reacted with disgust when he heard about the trade that night at Fenway Park. He knew the Red Sox would live to regret this.

"They passed out the press release near the dugout at 5," said Hall of Famer Peter Gammons, a Boston native who at the time was covering Major League Baseball for Sports Illustrated. "I rolled it up, tossed it in the trash barrell in the runway, went up the stairs and walked 1 3/4 miles home."

Bagwell may have had a similar reaction, but it didn't take long for him to realize that this trade was the best thing that could have happened to him. The Astros were rebuilding, replacing older veterans with young, inexpensive kids. Bagwell, having played no higher than Double-A, didn't figure to be in the mix in his first year with his new club. But after reviewing how the team was structured, with rookies and unprovens, he thought, well, maybe I have a shot.

He began Spring Training in 1991 as a third baseman behind incumbent Ken Caminiti. A month later, Bagwell hit his way onto the team, as a first baseman, giving the Astros what they figured to be a much better option than Mike Simms, who probably would have been the Opening Day first baseman for the sheer fact that the team didn't have any other viable options.

By the end of the season, Bagwell was the National League's Rookie of the Year. Three years later, he was the National League's Most Valuable Player. And just like that, he went from a homesick Boston kid to one of the most recognizable names on the Houston sports scene.

Beyond the statistics, Bagwell's contributions were priceless. His leadership in the clubhouse was as important as his performance on the field, and it's quite possible no other player in baseball generated more respect from his teammates.

Bagwell had a close, personal relationship with every player on the roster. When a young player was called up or the Astros acquired someone in a trade, Bagwell and Craig Biggio were the first to approach him to welcome him to the team.

Bagwell, remembering how he benefitted as a young player from veterans such as Casey Candaele, often took a young pitcher to dinner after his first Major League win. He was the first to reassure a reliever after a blown save or bad outing that things would be OK.

"He was a superstar-caliber player who really understood what every single player, regardless of their rung on the ladder, was going through," said Brad Ausmus, Bagwell's closest friend on the team. "He could relate to everybody, regardless of their status in baseball and their position on the team. He was very understanding."

In an era in which players are often more concerned about not hurting themselves, especially in a contract year, Bagwell played through an assortment of injuries. And he delivered.

He reached the 300- and 400-homer marks in signature fashion. He hit two off Brewers pitching on Aug. 19, 2000, to reach 300, and in Cincinnati on July 20, 2003, he knocked Nos. 399 and 400. Bagwell is the all-time club leader in multi-homer games, with 31.

Known as one of baseball's most instinctive players, Bagwell was nearly flawless on the basepaths. He stole home three times, including his swipe of the plate on Aug. 18, 2001, which contributed to a 3-0 win over the Pirates.

And his defense was second to none. He turned the 3-6-3 double play into his signature move, executing the somewhat acrobatic act with nearly 100-percent success rate.

"I was floored to see that he only won one Gold Glove," general manager Tim Purpura said. "I never saw a first baseman be that agile. Crashing in on bunts, whirling and throwing to second. He was a great defender."

Bagwell and Biggio were inducted into the Texas Baseball Hall of Fame on Nov. 12, 2004, and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame Feb. 9, 2005. As for Cooperstown, Bagwell will be eligible for that honor in 2011. After 15 stellar seasons as one of baseball's elite, he has a great chance to make it a hat trick.

Talks progressing on new Marlins' home- MLB.com

The Marlins want to call South Florida home for many years to come and now MLB has begun to step in to see that this becomes a reality. Despite not having a strong fan base, the fish have been very successful in their 14 years of existence and they want to continue their winning ways in the city of Miami.



MLB helping team secure funding for stadium in South Florida
By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com


MIAMI -- If no news is good news, then this was an encouraging week for the Marlins' stadium effort.

Earlier this week, Major League Baseball president Bob DuPuy was in South Florida taking part in a series of stadium-related meetings with team and local officials.

Securing funding for a new Marlins' home has become a high-league priority, and Major League Baseball has assumed an active role in the push to end more than a decade of stadium struggles in South Florida.

The Marlins had no comment on the meetings, which have quietly been going on outside of the public's eye.

MLB.com has learned that stadium talks are progressing.

One proposed site that is gaining momentum is the city of Miami, just south of the Miami Arena off I-95. Pompano, in Broward County, is also a viable location. And the city of Hialeah, in Miami-Dade County, is another possibility.

Since their inaugural 1993 season, the Marlins have been sharing Dolphin Stadium with the Miami Dolphins. A series of leases to remain in a park designed primarily for football expires after the 2010 season.

To secure the long-term stability of the franchise, the Marlins have long been searching for their own park, which would offer the team a much more favorable revenue stream.

With the Marlins having to be out of their current home after 2010, the clock is ticking to get a deal done in the near future. It takes three years to build a park, and ideally the team would like to move into a new home in 2010 rather than remain for the final year of their Dolphin Stadium deal.

Due to South Florida's scorching hot temperatures, and unpredictable rain patterns, the Marlins insist that a retractable-roof park is a necessity. One reason the city of Miami site is attractive is because parking isn't part of the estimated $430 million cost for a 38,000-seat facility.

The city of Miami has ample public parking already in the surrounding areas, plus the stadium would be accessible by the Metrorail train system.

DuPuy's presence at these meetings is significant because it shows the league's desire to keep baseball entrenched in South Florida.

Last year, the Marlins were granted permission to seek relocation after a proposed stadium plan next to the Orange Bowl in Miami fell through.

Marlins officials visited other markets, and while San Antonio, Texas, was impressive, there is no talk now of relocation.

MLB and team management want the franchise, with two World Series titles in their relatively brief history, to remain in South Florida.

Finding the Marlins a new home has moved up on the league's priority list because a series of events -- which includes the launching of the first World Baseball Classic, the new collective bargaining agreement and the Twins and A's stadium stalemates -- have all been addressed