March 18, 2010
MLB Latest News Stories
Rangers' Washington tested positive for cocaine in '09
Rangers manager Ron Washington tested positive for cocaine in July of 2009, SI.com reports.
According to the report, Washington was subjected to increased drug testing after his positive test. He has passed all of the subsequent tests.
"I did make a mistake and I regret that I did it," Washington told SI.com. "I am really embarrassed and I am really sorry."
Washington reportedly called the commissioner's office before the test results were revealed and warned MLB officials that the results might come back positive.
MLB managers, coaches and other clubhouse personnel have been subject to drug testing since 2008, when baseball adopted the measure as one of George Mitchell's recommendations in his report on peformance-enhancing drug use in the sport, according to the SI.com report.
"Any attempt to try to explain it is going to sound like excuses," Washington told the website. "There is no right way to explain something wrong, and I did wrong. Was it tension? Maybe. Anxiety?"The Rangers accepted his apology when Washington explained that it was a one-time transgression.
"Despite the disappointment, we felt that supporting Ron was the right thing to do," Texas general manager Jon Daniels told SI.com. "We asked a lot of questions and worked through Major League Baseball's program, where Ron had appropriate consultation, support and testing. But for all the reasons we hired him in the first place, we felt and continued to feel that he's the right guy to lead the club. He made a significant mistake. He also admitted to it and took steps to ensure that it won't happen again."
In three seasons as Rangers' manager, Washington is 241-245. He had his first winning season (87-75) in 2009.
Texas Rangers 2010 preview
For the first time since 2004 and just the second time since 1999, the Rangers finished with a winning record last season. But despite being in first place as late as July 10, they still finished 10 games behind the first-place Angels. As is usually the case, pitching, namely the starters, will make or break this team's chances. After a down year offensively and the loss of hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo, Texas can't rely on its bats to deliver 10-8 wins.
Josh Hamilton's health will be a key question for the Rangers. Three questions
1. Can Josh Hamilton stay healthy?
In his breakout season in 2008, Hamilton hit .304 with 32 homers and an AL-best 130 RBIs in 156 games. Plagued by back, rib and abdominal injuries last season, Hamilton was limited to 89 games and finished with a .268-10-54 stat line. Though not entirely because of Hamilton's absence, the Rangers went from being the majors' highest-scoring team in '08 (901 runs) to the 10th highest-scoring team (784 runs) in '09.
This spring, Hamilton missed a good chunk of time because of a shoulder injury. Shortly after returning from that injury Monday, he was hit on the left hand by a pitch. The move from center field to left field should mean less wear and tear, but there is an outfield wall to crash into in left field, too. With an unproven rotation, the Rangers need more production from their offense -- something that won't be possible if their best hitter spends more time on the disabled list than at the plate.
2. Will the rotation be good enough?
Team president Nolan Ryan followed through on his promise to toughen up his starters last season. In 2008, the Rangers' rotation finished 29th in the majors with a 5.51 ERA and last with 869 1/3 innings pitched. Last season, they improved to 18th in ERA (4.61) and 17th in innings pitched. However, No. 1 starter and workhorse Kevin Millwood, who led the group with 198 2/3 innings pitched last season, was traded to Baltimore.
What's left is a young and unproven bunch. Seventeen-game winner Scott Feldman broke through in '09 but had only seven career wins before last season. Offseason acquisition Rich Harden is a veteran No. 2, but he hardly displays the durability Ryan desires. Derek Holland and Tommy Hunter, both 23, were rookies last season, and Colby Lewis pitched in Japan the past two seasons. Among the other candidates is C.J. Wilson, who is hoping to move from the bullpen to the rotation. "If I (struggle) as a starter, then I go right back to doing what I did," he said.
3. How much does Vladimir Guerrero have left?
After years of being abused by Vlad, the Rangers are relieved to have him on their side. In 50 career games at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Guerrero has a .394 average, 14 homers and 33 RBIs. Against the Rangers, he hit .396 with 24 homers and 68 RBIs in 102 games. However, much of that production came before he began to break down physically. Because he should serve exclusively as a DH, Guerrero's chances of staying healthy improve. In a strong lineup and hitter-friendly park, he should approach his numbers from 2008 (.303-27-91).
Projected lineup
1. CF Julio Borbon: 19 SBs, 30 runs, 20 RBIs in 46 games in '09.
2. 3B Michael Young: .411 OBP at home last season; .337 on road.
3. LF Josh Hamilton: .239 AVG vs. righthanders in '09; .327 vs. lefties.
4. DH Vladimir Guerrero: Failed to hit 25 HRs for first time since '97.
5. 2B Ian Kinsler: Career-best 31 HRs last season; career-worst .253 AVG.
6. RF Nelson Cruz: 53 RBIs in first half; 23 after break.
7. 1B Chris Davis: 150 K's, 24 BBs in 391 at-bats in '09.
8. C Jarrod Saltalamacchia: Shoulder concerns linger.
9. SS Elvis Andrus: .791 OPS at home as rookie; .620 on road.
PROJECTED ROTATION
1. RHP Scott Feldman: 5-4, 4.71 ERA at home last season; 12-4, 3.56 on road.
2. RHP Rich Harden: Has reached 150 IP just once ('04).
3. RHP Colby Lewis: 6.83 ERA with Texas from 2002-04.
4. RHP Tommy Hunter: 2.95 ERA in first 12 starts; 6.28 ERA in final seven.
5. RHP Derek Holland: Allowed 26 HRs in 138 1/3 IP in '09.
Projected closer
RHP Frank Francisco: 2.28 ERA in first half; 5.82 in second half.
Related Links Grades
Offense: B. Despite the drop-off in production last season and the loss to top RBI man Marlon Byrd to free agency this past offseason, the Rangers' lineup has the potential to be among the majors' best. Texas must improve its on-base percentage (24th last season) and cut down on its strikeouts (third most in 2009).
Pitching: C. The rotation is young and lacks a veteran No. 1, and much will depend on Harden's durability. However, the bullpen should be strong and deep after the addition of lefthander Darren Oliver and with the continued emergence of Neftali Feliz.
Bench: C. The arrival of Pedro Borbon and the addition of Guerrero left David Murphy without a starting gig. Murphy, who hit a career-high 17 homers last season, can play all three outfield spots. Light-hitting Esteban German is the primary reserve infield, and Taylor Teagarden is 1A at catcher. But he hit just .217 in 2009.
Manager: C. The team's 87 wins in 2009 were its most since 2004, and it was Ron Washington's first winning season since taking over in 2007. Washington, who prides himself on fundamentals, must coax more improvement defensively. The Rangers improved to 25th in fielding percentage from 30th in 2008 and committed 26 fewer errors, after leading the majors with 132 miscues in '08.
Sporting News prediction: In what should be a tight race in the AL West, the Rangers should come close to their 2009 win total -- but still finish third.
Coming Thursday: Mariners preview
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
Scouts' Views: AL West
Q: Which pitcher (if any) will emerge as the Angels' ace?
Scout says: "I think Joe Saunders has a chance to really solidify himself as one of the premier lefthanded pitchers in the game. He's a tremendous makeup guy, works extremely hard, has a very strong aptitude for the game. He's probably the most durable guy in that rotation. To me, Saunders is a complete package and could put himself in that category as one of the top five to 10 lefties in the game."
Q: Which team in the division is the best defensively?
Scout says: "Texas is strong, but their catching is going to be a question mark. Seattle is good; Oakland doesn't really have a premier guy. But it's gotta be the Angels, with their pitching and how they play up the middle with Torii Hunter and Erick Aybar. The Angels have got to be considered the best defensive club."
Q: New Rangers DH Vladimir Guerrero has great numbers at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington during his career. Will that continue?
Scout says: "Absolutely. One, because he likes to hit in that park. And two, because he's a tremendous presence in the batter's box and has a tremendous supporting cast around him. Even if he doesn't produce exactly what he did for L.A., he's in a hitter-friendly ballpark geared to the right-center field gap. I think he's going to be very impactful for that lineup."
This story first appeared in Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Los Angeles Angels 2010 preview
The Angels lost four mainstays while the rest of the division was adding players who figure to improve their new teams. But don't count out the Angels yet. They still have the division's deepest rotation, a fast-break offense and manager Mike Scioscia. They also have won three consecutive division titles. Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said, "You can make a legitimate case for all four teams." But he knows the Angels remain the team to beat.
The Angels added Joel Pineiro in part to make up for the loss of John Lackey. Three questions
1. Who will replace Chone Figgins?
The Angels lost Figgins, John Lackey, Vladimir Guerrero and Darren Oliver in free agency. Figgins, their All-Star third baseman, will be the most difficult to replace. Figgins said he was ready to return to L.A. but thought the club had other ideas all along. "Brandon Wood has been in their eyes for a while now," Figgins said. "He's one of those guys who've been in the organization awhile."
Wood will take over Figgins' position in the field, but Erick Aybar will inherit the more difficult task of replacing Figgins in the leadoff role. Aybar, 26, is a speedy switch hitter like Figgins but strikes out less often. However, Aybar will need to walk more to boost his .353 on-base percentage into the neighborhood of Figgins' .395. The Angels should give Maicer Izturis opportunities in the top spot, too.
2. Who will replace Lackey?
The Angels wanted no part of awarding their No. 1 starter a five-year deal after he spent time on the disabled list with arm trouble in each of the past two seasons. Instead, they signed 31-year-old righthander Joel Pineiro for two years and a lot less money. Pineiro, heeding the advice of Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan, relied on a sinker to have his best season (214 innings, 3.49 ERA) in 2009.
Although Pineiro will take Lackey's spot in the rotation, it is uncertain whether someone will assume his ace status. Jered Weaver and Joe Saunders could become 1 and 1A. Weaver, a first-round pick in 2004, is coming off his best season, having finished in the top 10 in the AL in wins (16), innings (211) and ERA (3.75). Saunders went 16-7 but allowed the second-most homers (29) of any AL starter.
3. Who will replace Guerrero?
Guerrero spent six highly productive seasons in Anaheim, hitting .319 and averaging more than least 28 homers per season. He was limited by injuries in 2009 and the Angels -- with a new focus on plate discipline -- opted not to bring him back.
Instead, they signed World Series MVP Hideki Matsui, who fits their new, disciplined approach. About all Matsui has in common with Guerrero are declining skills in the outfield. Matsui, 35, is almost eight months older than Guerrero and knee injuries have limited him to DH duty. He still can hit, though. He has a career .370 on-base percentage and blasted 28 homers last season.
Projected lineup
1. SS Erick Aybar: Career bests in '09: .312 AVG, .353 OBP.
2. RF Bobby Abreu: 96 runs were his fewest since '98.
3. CF Torii Hunter: .299 AVG, .873 OPS were career bests.
4. 1B Kendry Morales: Led team with 34 HRs, 108 RBIs.
5. DH Hideki Matsui: 28 HRs were most since '04.
6. LF Juan Rivera: Career bests in '09: 25 HRs, 88 RBIs.
7. 2B Howie Kendrick: Team-best .358 AVG after break.
8. C Mike Napoli: 20 HRs in platoon with Jeff Mathis.
9. 3B Brandon Wood: .192 AVG in parts of 3 MLB seasons.
Projected rotation
1. RHP Jered Weaver: Surpassed 200 IP for first time in '09.
2. LHP Joe Saunders: 33 wins over past 2 seasons (2nd in AL).
3. RHP Ervin Santana: 5.00-plus ERA in 2 of past 3 seasons.
4. LHP Scott Kazmir: 1.73 ERA in 6 starts after trade to Angels. 5. RHP Joel Pineiro: Led MLB in fewest walks, most grounders per 9 IP.
Projected closer
LHP Brian Fuentes: Career-high 48 saves in '09; 3.93 ERA was highest since '04.
Related Links Grades
Offense: A. The addition of Abreu last season resulted in a much more patient approach at the plate. After finishing 11th in the AL with a .330 on-base percentage in 2008, Los Angeles was third last season at .350. The Angels led the AL with a .285 batting average and finished second in runs (883). Expect more of the same this season with the continued development of Morales and Aybar.
Pitching: B. The return to health of Scot Shields and the arrival of Fernando Rodney should go a long way in offsetting Oliver's loss in the bullpen. Kevin Jepsen also brings plenty of heat in relief. The rotation lacks a proven ace, but it is the deepest in the division.
Bench: B. The Angels want Wood to be the regular at third base so they can use Izturis at second, short and third. They are two deep at catcher, and Reggie Willits provides speed as the fourth outfielder.
Manager: A. There are plenty of reasons why Scioscia is the AL's longest tenured manager. Two of them: The Angels are as well-trained in the fundamentals as any team in the majors, and his players have no doubt about who is in charge.
Sporting News prediction: The rest of the West is catching up, but the Angels' advantage in starting pitching will be the difference. They will win their sixth division title in the past seven seasons.
Coming Wednesday: Rangers preview
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Marlins among teams checking out Mike Lowell
Scouts from the Marlins and other teams watched Red Sox infielder Mike Lowell make his spring training debut Monday, The Miami Herald reports.
Lowell played first base Monday and went 1-for-2 at the plate against the Orioles.
The Herald reports the Marlins may be in the market for a corner infielder, given their uncertainty at first and third base. Rookies Logan Morrison and Gaby Sanchez are competing at first, but if neither one seizes the opportunity, Florida might shift third baseman Jorge Cantu to first. That would leave a hole at third, which the 36-year-old Lowell could fill.
Any trade would have to include Boston paying most of Lowell's $12 million salary for 2010. Boston reportedly was prepared to give the Rangers $9 million as part of a Lowell deal.
Lowell, whom the Marlins traded to the Red Sox in 2005 as part of the Josh Beckett deal, star underwent offseason surgery on his thumb and has been hobbled in recent years with a hip ailment. The thumb injury scuttled an offseason trade to the Rangers.
Twins closer Joe Nathan will test sore elbow by weekend
Twins closer Joe Nathan told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune he plans to play catch on Saturday to test the torn ligament in his right elbow—and determine whether he will need season-ending surgery.
"When I feel loose—if I do get loose—I definitely want to test this thing as much as I can for Day 1 and see how it feels," Nathan told the newspaper. "This is going to be something where there shouldn't be a gray area. It's going to be, 'I feel great,' or, 'This just isn't me, this doesn't feel right.'"
O's closer Mike Gonzalez says there's no need to worry about his slow start
New Orioles closer Mike Gonzalez told the Baltimore Sun that questions about his health and pitch velocity are unwarranted and his arm feels just fine. Gonzalez, who has pitched only twice so far this spring, left Saturday's "B" game against the Marlins because of soreness in his lower back, not his arm.
"My arm feels great and everything else," Gonzalez told the newspaper. "I just had a little tightness in my lower back. It's just one of those couple-of-day things. I just have to stay on top of it. It's not a big deal at all. I've felt it before. It's just one of those things where you take a couple of days and you're fine."
And his velocity, which has been in the mid-80s instead the low-to-mid-90s that scouts are accustomed to seeing? "I really don't look at velocity. I never have," Gonzalez said. "It was the same thing last year at spring training. They were questioning my velocity. I was anywhere from 86 to 89. Then I come out opening day and I'm 93 to 95. That's just how it is, man."
Red Sox infielder Jed Lowrie tests out OK after medical scare
A source told the Boston Herald on Monday that Red Sox infielder Jed Lowrie checked out fine after undergoing tests for a rapid heartbeat and exhaustion and should be back on the field soon.
When asked Sunday why Lowrie had been missing from camp the previous three days, manager Terry Francona said, "He had a thing the other day when we were over in Port St. Lucie. He wasn't feeling really good, so we had him checked out with the doctor."
The quick reaction to Lowrie's discomfort probably was prompted by the recent news that Red Sox prospect Ryan Westmoreland has a rare brain condition that will require surgery.
"We wanted to run him through some tests before we get him back on the field," Francona told the newspaper. "We've been doing that the last couple of days but with the weekend it kind of slowed things down a bit. They're all precautionary.
"He just came in and said, 'I kind of feel like I got hit by a car.' He just got run down and he said he has had this feeling during the winter, so we just want to get him kind of back on his feet and eliminate anything it could ever be. So the safest way to go about it is to run a bunch of tests. We're probably being overly cautious, but I'm not sure you can be."
Fly's rumorama: Duke, Connecticut women, Shaun Hill, Ozzie Guillen, Johnny Damon, Tiger Woods
NCAA Tournament: Good thing Duke has such an easy road to the Final Four: Geno Auriemma is about to pass Mike Krzyzewski in number of NCAA Tournament wins.
NFL: With Shaun Hill's arrival in Motown, Fly's pal Tom Kowalski (SN's Lions correspondent) wants to be the first to tell you there's a quarterback controversy in Detroit.
Here comes the Lions' QB controversy
MLB: White Sox skipper Ozzie Guillen says of 24-year-old 2B prospect C.J. Retherford: "I love that kid a lot. He's a sleeper, but he has started waking people up." Too bad the ChiSox are keeping a digital muzzle on Guillen.
• Still displaying an inability to shut up, Johnny Damon says he sees his year with the Tigers (which he pretty much said is just one year) is sort of a vacation from the AL East, where he would still like to play — with the Rays.
Golf: If you're still watching Tiger Woods' life off the links, Radaronline reports that Elin has not moved home as some sites reported last week.
MLB2K Fantasy Player of the Week 3
Pittsburgh Pirates 2010 preview
The goal, as has been the case for more than the past decade, is to finish .500. Pittsburgh's streak of 17 consecutive losing seasons is a record not only for MLB, but for the NFL, NBA and NHL. The last time the Pirates finished above .500 was 1992 -- Barry Bonds' final season with the team. The 2010 Pirates have a lineup that is good enough to reach .500, but the rotation is a question mark. Up-and-comer for the 2010 season? Andrew McCutchen.
Three questions
1. How good is center fielder Andrew McCutchen?
McCutchen was drafted 11th overall in 2005, just after Cameron Maybin and right before Jay Bruce. The Pirates' prospect took longer to reach the majors than Maybin or Bruce, but he clearly had the best 2009 season. "The trade of Nate McLouth to the Braves opened the door for the speedy outfielder and he didn't look back," MLB Network analyst Dan Plesac said. "He's a five-tool player who hit three home runs in one game last season. He could be a 30-30 (player) in the very near future."
In 108 games as a rookie last season, McCutchen had 12 homers, 22 stolen bases and 54 RBIs (second on the team) from the leadoff spot. Although McCutchen wasn't pleased with the pace of his rise though the minors, the Pirates wanted to make sure he was ready when they brought him up for good. McCutchen is closer to being an All-Star than a minor leaguer again.
2. What about Pedro Alvarez?
If McCutchen is Mr. Right Now, Alvarez is The Next Big Thing. Although he might be ready for the majors offensively, there is little chance the Pirates will break camp with the No. 2 overall pick of the 2008 draft on their roster.
Between advanced Class A and Class AA last season, Alvarez hit .288 with 27 homers and 95 RBIs. "At the end of the day, I don't think he performed as poorly at Lynchburg or as exceptional at Altoona as it appeared on paper," Pirates director of player development Kyle Stark said. Alvarez should start 2010 at Class AAA, where he will refine his approach at the plate and continue to work on his defense at third base. A midseason call-up is possible.
3. What about the other McCutchen?
Daniel McCutchen -- no relation to Andrew -- is a candidate for the fifth spot in the rotation. The 27-year-old came to the Pirates' organization in the trade that sent Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte to the Yankees in 2008. McCutchen posted a 4.21 ERA in six starts with Pittsburgh last season after going 13-6 with a 3.47 ERA at Class AAA.
His primary competition is Kevin Hart, who was 1-8 with a 6.92 ERA in 10 starts for the Pirates in 2009. Hart, also 27, has a 5.26 ERA in 47 games (14 starts) in his five-season major league career.
Projected lineup
1. CF Andrew McCutchen: Led team with 74 runs, 22 SBs.
2. 2B Akinori Iwamura: Career .354 OBP with Rays.
3. RF Garrett Jones: 21 HRs, .938 OPS in 82 games.
4. C Ryan Doumit: .318 AVG, 15 HRs when healthy in '08.
5. 3B Andy LaRoche: Only Pirate to play more than 133 games last season.
6. LF Lastings Milledge: .167 AVG with Nats, .291 with Pirates in '09.
7. 1B Jeff Clement: HRs, 90 RBIs, .850 OPS at Class AAA.
8. SS Ronny Cedeno: .208 AVG with Mariners, Pirates in '09.
Projected rotation
1. LHP Paul Maholm: At least 29 starts past 4 seasons.
2. LHP Zach Duke: One-time All-Star in '09; led N.L. with 16 losses.<
3. RHP Ross Ohlendorf: 3.92 ERA was rotation's best in '09.
4. RHP Charlie Morton: 6.15 ERA for Braves in '08; 4.55 for Pirates in '09.
5. RHP Kevin Hart: .60 ERA with Cubs; 6.92 ERA with Pirates in '09.
Projected closer
RHP Octavio Dotel: 22 saves in '04; 19 since.
Grades
Offense: D. The Pirates' offense is on an upward trend but finished last in the majors in runs scored in 2009. McCutchen and Garrett Jones brought life to the lineup, and Akinori Iwamura provides an established presence to the top of the order. Having Ryan Doumit healthy in the cleanup spot would be a big boost. Related Links
Pitching: D. Although the top three starters combined to win only 30 games last season, they all had an ERA under 4.50. The back end of the rotation has questions, however. Octavio Dotel almost certainly will be better as a closer than Matt Capps was last season; Capps lost eight games and had a 5.80 ERA.
Bench: C. There isn't much power off the bench, but the Pirates have a more experienced group of reserves than they have had in recent seasons. Ryan Church can play all three outfield positions, and Bobby Crosby has learned to become valuable around the infield with his glove
Manager: B. There is more talent on this Pirates team than in the past several years, so the expectation is for Russell, in his third season, to lead the group above the 70-win plateau for the first time.
Sporting News prediction: If the pitching can produce, the offense has the ability to help this team to a .500 finish. However, the Pirates' best-case scenario is about 75 wins.
Coming Tuesday: Angels preview
Ryan Fagan is a staff writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com.
Phils reportedly have discussed Ryan Howard-Albert Pujols swap
The idea of offering Ryan Howard to the Cardinals for Albert Pujols has been discussed within the Phillies organization, ESPN.com's Buster Olney reports.
Phillies GM Ruben Amaro denied that such talks have occurred, and it is unclear whether the team has spoken to anyone with the Cardinals, according to the report, which cites anonymous sources.
"Lies," Amaro told Olney in response to the rumor. "That's a lie. I don't know who you're talking to, but that's a lie."
That said, there would be logic behind the trade proposal.
Widely considered the best player in baseball, Pujols is set to become a free agent after the 2011 season, and he is expected to ask for a contract that approaches Alex Rodriguez's record-setting 10-year, $275 million deal with the Yankees, according to the report.
Early extension talks between the Cardinals and Pujols have not led to a deal, ESPN.com reports. If the team decided it could not afford the slugger, then it might seek to unload Pujols through a blockbuster trade.
Acquiring Howard might soften the PR hit sure to come if the Cardinals traded their superstar, not only because of Howard's talents, but also because he grew up in the St. Louis area.
While not at Pujols' level offensively or in the field, Howard would not be a bad replacement. The 30-year-old lefty is only a couple of months older than Pujols, and in the last four seasons, Howard has hit 198 homers, driven in 572 runs and finished in the top five of the NL MVP race every year. He also becomes a free agent after the 2011 season but could probably be signed for significantly less than Pujols.
MLB season preview: Team-by-team
Leading into the baseball season, Sporting News will preview all 30 MLB teams. For more great baseball content, order your copy of our baseball yearbook, or pick one up at a newsstand today.
New York YankeesPreview: Bombers still the team to beat
Fantasy: Champs reload and repeat
Preview: Strong pitching should lead to postseason
Fantasy: BoSox exhibit substance and style
Preview: Contender or best also-ran?
Fantasy: Tampa Bay at a crossroads
Preview: Destined for the cellar?
Fantasy: Jays enter a new era
Preview: Getting better, but still long road
Fantasy: O's good again -- almost
Preview: Can Phils win third straight pennant?
Fantasy: Lidge is a risky pick
Preview: Behind Johnson, rotation is a concern
Fantasy: Ramirez a No. 1 overall pick?
Preview: Pitching-strong Atlanta should contend for wild card
Fantasy: Is Atlanta too old?
Preview: Bay adds power; is it enough?
Fantasy: Nowhere to go but up?
Preview: All eyes on Strasburg this year
Fantasy: Is it worth it to draft Strasburg?
Minnesota Twins
Preview: Primed to repeat as Central champs
Fantasy: Will Mauer repeat power numbers?
Detroit Tigers
Preview: Too many questions to win division
Fantasy: New pieces in place -- again
Chicago White Sox
Preview: Lots of pitching; where's the power?
Fantasy: Team could be sneaky good
Cleveland Indians
Preview: Long season in store for Tribe
Fantasy: Will Sizemore bounce back?
Kansas City Royals
Preview: Greinke leads talented core
Fantasy: Can Greinke repeat big '09?
St. Louis Cardinals
Preview: Expect a repeat division title
Fantasy: Can Duncan work magic with Penny?
Chicago Cubs
Preview: Cubbies will be in wild-card mix
Fantasy: Will injury bug strike again?
Cincinnati Reds
Preview: Youngsters need to produce
Fantasy: Reds have some valuable players
Houston Astros
Preview: Too many questions to contend
Fantasy: Will Berkman rebound?
Milwaukee Brewers
Preview: Expectations have changed
Fantasy: Fielder more valuable than Braun
Berkman to have knee surgery, miss 2-4 weeks
KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Houston All-Star first baseman Lance Berkman will have minor surgery on his left knee Saturday and miss two-to-four weeks, a recovery period that could sideline him for opening day.
The 34-year-old injured knee during a baserunning drill at spring training on March 1. Tests showed that Berkman bruised his knee, and he played five games after skipping the Astros' spring training opener.
Berkman's knee continued to swell, and team doctor Dr. David Lintner decided on Friday that the five-time All-Star slugger should have arthroscopic surgery.
Astros general manager Ed Wade said the team is confident the injury won't be a lingering problem.
"We certainly don't encourage players to have surgery, but if this is an easy fix, it removes the uncertainty that it could occur again," Wade said. "We think that once it gets addressed, that it's a dead issue and we won't have to worry about it anymore."
Wade said the initial bruise ruled out the option of surgery earlier.
"He had a strawberry on that knee, and Dr. Lintner told us that even if surgery had been prescribed, they wouldn't have been able to do it until that strawberry healed because of the concern for an infection," Wade said. "So we'll address it now, get him moving in a straight line and, hopefully, not have to worry about it for the rest of the season."
Berkman had arthroscopic surgery on the same knee in 1999. He missed 18 games last year with a strained left calf and hit .274, a career low for a full season. He is entering the final season of an $85 million, six-year contract extension.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Houston Astros 2010 preview
From 2005-08, the Astros' .557 second-half winning percentage was tied for sixth-best in the majors. But instead of making a late-season run and vaulting into postseason contention last season, the Astros went 30-44 (.405) after the All-Star break -- a slide that cost manager Cecil Cooper his job in late September. Enter Brad Mills, a managerial rookie who served as Red Sox bench coach the past six seasons. Mills inherits a 74-win squad that finished in fifth place in the NL Central.
Three quesions
Can Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman contribute like they have in the past?
1. Is Roy Oswalt still an ace?
For the first time in his career, Oswalt failed to achieve a double-digit win total in 2009. He finished 8-6 with a career-worst 4.12 ERA in 30 starts. It was the sixth consecutive season he made at least 30 starts, but the first time since 2003 that he failed to pitch at least 200 innings. Oswalt also battled back problems, leading to whispers that the 32-year-old is breaking down as a result of the wear and tear from his years of shouldering a heavy workload.
Because Wandy Rodriguez was the only other Astros starter with an ERA under 4.50 last season, the team needs Oswalt to return to pre-2009 form -- or as close to it as possible. Newcomer Brett Myers is a question mark at No. 3, and the final two spots in the rotation are up for grabs, with Brian Moehler, Bud Norris and Felipe Paulino the top candidates.
2. Will this be Lance Berkman's final season in Houston?
The last remaining Killer B is under contract through the 2011 season, but the Astros hold a $15 million option for next season. Berkman recently said he would be inclined to sign elsewhere if the Astros don't exercise that option and allow him to become a free agent. His future could depend on whether he is able to bounce back from what statistically was the worst season of his career.
Limited to 136 games because of biceps and calf injuries, Berkman hit .274 with 25 homers and 80 RBIs in 2009. Not terrible numbers, but not up to par with his usual production. In 2006, Berkman hit .315 and established new career highs with 45 homers and 136 RBIs. At one point last season, Berkman had a 33-game homerless drought.
3. Will there be enough offense?
Houston finished 27th in the majors in runs scored and 25th in OPS last season, and it lost its second-best RBI man from last season when Miguel Tejada signed with the Orioles in the offseason. In addition to Berkman's down season, Carlos Lee's homer total dropped for a second consecutive year. As a result, leadoff man Michael Bourn failed to score 100 runs despite his career-best .354 on-base percentage and an NL-leading 61 steals.
Taking over for Tejada at shortstop will be defense-first Tommy Manzella, whose five career major league at-bats came late in 2009. "(Manzella has) done a great job through the minor leagues, and he's been exceptional on the defensive end," Mills said.
Projected lineup
1. CF Michael Bourn: Must cut down on K's (140 in '09).
2. 2B Kaz Matsui: Just a .302 OBP last season.
3. 1B Lance Berkman: Switch hitter hit .231 vs. lefties.
4. LF Carlos Lee: .831 OPS was lowest since '05.
5. RF Hunter Pence: .298 AVG, 11 HRs before break; .263 AVG, 14 HRs after.
6. 3B Pedro Feliz: .301 AVG, 18 RBIs in 25 career games at Minute Maid Park.
7. SS Tommy Manzella: 52 SBs, 19 triples in 5 minor league season.
8. C J.R. Towles: .188 AVG in 84 MLB games the past 3 seasons.
Projected rotation
1. RHP Roy Oswalt: 4.12 ERA at home and on road in '09.
2. LHP Wandy Rodriguez: 9-3, 2.08 ERA at home; 5-9, 4.05 on road.
3. RHP Brett Myers: 6.43 ERA as RP after returning from hip surgery last season.
4. RHP Felipe Paulino: 4-12, 5.74 ERA in 20 career starts.
5. RHP Bud Norris: 3-0, 1.57 ERA in final 4 starts of '09.
PROJECTED CLOSER
RHP Brandon Lyon: 2.86 ERA in setup role with Tigers last season.
Related Links Grades
Offense: D. Despite playing in one of the majors' most hitter-friendly parks, Houston was outscored by every NL team except the Pirates and Padres last season. And Houston finished 25th in homers. At least the Astros make contact; only the Mets finished with fewer strikeouts.
Pitching: D. Only six major league teams had a staff ERA worse than Houston's 4.54 last season. The back end of the rotation has holes, and the bullpen lost closer Jose Valverde (25 saves, 2.33 ERA last season) and setup man LaTroy Hawkins (2.13 ERA). The bright spot is Rodriguez, an emerging ace.
Bench: C. With the addition of Pedro Feliz, Geoff Blum will return to a reserve role and add a powerful bat to the bench. Jeff Keppinger, who had a career-high seven homers in 2009, will serve as the middle-infield backup. Jason Michaels, a .228 hitter the past two seasons, is the fourth outfielder.
Manager: C. An incomplete might be more accurate, given that Mills' has yet to manager his first major league game. Although he won't have the talent he did while serving as Boston's bench coach, Mills will have plenty of veterans to lean on in Houston. It remains to be seen, however, whether those veterans are in decline.
Sporting News prediction: With lingering questions about both the offense and the pitching staff, Houston is unlikely to improve upon its fifth-place finish from last season.
Coming Monday: Pirates preview.
Chris Bahr is a senior editor for Sporting News. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
Helton agrees to two-year extension with Rockies
Rockies first baseman Todd Helton has agreed to a two-year, $9 million extension with the team, according to The Denver Post.
The newspaper speculated the contract will allow Helton to retire with the organization that drafted him eighth overall in 1995.
Helton, a five-time All-Star, a three-time Gold Glove winner and the 2000 N.L. batting champion, hit .325 with 15 homers, 86 RBIs and a .416 on-base percentage in 151 games with Colorado last season.
In his 13-season major league career, Helton has a .328 batting average, 325 homers and 1,202 RBIs. His career .427 on-base percentage is the best among active players.
Cincinnati Reds 2010 preview
Cincinnati's 27-13 finish in 2009 provided some hope. But will Joey Votto have his breakout season? Can Scott Rolen stay healthy? Will Aaron Harang bounce back in a contract year? Will Homer Bailey's strong second half carry over? How good is Aroldis Chapman, and when will he arrive?
And the biggest question: Can the Reds be surprise contenders in the NL Central? If they get positive results to even half of their questions, the answer is yes.
Joey Votto has power, but can he stay healthy?
Three questions
1. What happened in the offseason?
General manager Walt Jocketty didn't make a lot of moves, but the ones he made bode well for the future. For the long term: The Reds pulled off the surprise of the offseason by outbidding the big-money clubs for 22-year-old Aroldis Chapman. The Reds could feature a rotation of Chapman, Homer Bailey, Johnny Cueto and Edinson Volquez as soon as next season. For the short-term: Jocketty dumped Willy Taveras and his contract on the A's, which allowed the Reds to sign shortstop Orlando Cabrera to a one-year deal. Cincinnati also brought back Johnny Gomes -- an underrated move because of his power.
As a result, the Reds are better. They will replace Taveras, who disappointed in his only season in Cincinnati, with Drew Stubbs. And Cabrera provides an upgrade over Paul Janish at shortstop. The rest of the lineup returns intact.
2. Where's the offense?
The Reds play in a hitter-friendly park and have a potentially strong middle of the lineup. However, health is a concern. Votto, Rolen and Jay Bruce all have the power to hit 25 homers, but they need to stay in the lineup for more than 131 games. None of the three did so last season. Neither did Ramon Hernandez, another player capable of reaching double figures in homers.
The Reds need their thumpers to thump because they don't have a lot of speed. Their cleanup hitter, Brandon Phillips, tied Taveras for the team lead in steals with 25 last season.
Will Aroldis Chapman earn a spot on the Reds' opening day roster?
3. Is Chapman ready?
Most scouts seem to favor Nationals phenom Stephen Strasburg over the Reds' Chapman. But Chapman signed the bigger contract and could reach the majors first. He has done little but impress all who have watched him since he began working out with pitching coach Bryan Price in January. He pitched two scoreless innings against the Royals in his debut Monday, which didn't hurt his chances of leaving spring training as part of the Reds' rotation. Those chances seem to be improving almost daily.
Manager Dusty Baker said Chapman throws his fastball with such ease that it is difficult to tell how fast it is (it has touched triple digits). "He's a tremendous athlete with a great arm, great pitching body and great aptitude for baseball," Baker said. If he proves as capable at adapting to a new country, Chapman could be starting in the majors next month.
Projected lineup
CF Drew Stubbs: Team-best 8 HRs after Aug. 19 call-up.
SS Orlando Cabrera: Led AL SSs with 77 RBIs in '09 with A's/Twins.
1B Joey Votto: .981 OPS was third in NL last season.
2B Brandon Phillips: Only NL 2B projected to hit cleanup.
3B Scott Rolen: .305 AVG, .368 OBP in 128 games in '09.
RF Jay Bruce: Lowest AVG (.223) among 20-plus-HR hitters in NL.
C Ramon Hernandez: Knee limited him to 81 games in '09.
LF Chris Dickerson: .383 OBP in 2 seasons could make him leadoff option.
Projected rotation
1. RHP Aaron Harang: 12-31, 4.52 ERA over past 2 seasons.
2. RHP Bronson Arroyo: Team-best 30 W's and 420 1/3 IP over past 2 seasons.
3. RHP Homer Bailey: 7.53 ERA first 11 starts; 1.70 in final 9.
4. RHP Johnny Cueto: 61 career starts; has lasted 8 IP only once.
5. RHP Justin Lehr: One of the candidates to hold the spot for Chapman.
Projected closer
RHP Francisco Cordero: 2.16 ERA was third-best among NL closers.
Related Links Grades
Offense: C. For the team's power production to improve, Votto and Bruce must stay on the field. The Reds play in one of the NL's most hitter-friendly parks, but they finished eighth in the NL in homers and 15th in average (.247).
Pitching: C. The continued development of Bailey and Cueto, plus the expected arrival of Chapman, bodes well for the future. For the present, however, the Reds need Harang to return to his 2007 form. They will be without Volquez (elbow) for most, if not all, of the season.
Bench: C. Gomes brings power and depth to an outfield that needs both. Rookie Chris Heisey should help, too, but he could start the season in the minors. Janish is a plus defender at shortstop but isn't a proven hitter. Aaron Miles brings a veteran presence to infield but hit only .185 last season with the Cubs.
Manager: B. In his third season with the Reds, Baker has yet to reach the postseason -- something he did with the Giants and Cubs in his pervious managerial stops. He is in the final season of his three-year contract and still is looking for his first winning season in Cincinnati.
Sporting News prediction: The Reds have the makings to surprise in the mediocre NL Central if some of their under-25 core -- Bruce, Bailey, Cueto -- step up. But their lack of power should keep them in the lower half of the division.
Coming Friday: Astros preview
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Heyward leads pack of breakout hitters
Starting pitchers Stephen Strasburg and Aroldis Chapman aren't the only youngsters drawing rave reviews early in spring training.
The way Jason Heyward has impressed, he could be a star before he plays his first regular season game. He is just one of a handful of young hitters hoping to use March as a springboard into a major role:
Jason Heyward has impressed the Braves with his overall game.
Jason Heyward, RF, Braves
Heyward came to camp with a chance to win the right field job. After a week of game action, it will be a surprise if he doesn't begin the season in the Braves' outfield. The 20-year-old has impressed the Braves with his hitting, plate discipline, fielding, baserunning and humility. The 6-4, 245-pounder had six hits -- one a thunderous homer -- six walks and only one strikeout in his first 21 plate appearances.
"He does a lot of stuff right," Braves manager Bobby Cox said. "It's amazing to me. We'll see what happens."
"The way he carries himself on and off the field, he's different from any other young kid I've ever seen," hitting coach Terry Pendleton said.
For example, Heyward remains unfazed by the media attention.
"I've been asked a lot of questions this spring," he said. "They will ask, 'What about the hype around you?' I say, 'Well you guys are the hype around me. You guys are asking the questions every day, you guys are bringing it to me.' I'm not feeling any hype because I'm just playing baseball. I'm doing the same thing I've been doing, the same thing I set out to do. That's what I'm prepared to do."
Related Links
Austin Jackson, CF, Tigers
The Tigers named the 23-year-old their starting center fielder upon his arrival in the Curtis Granderson trade, and he hasn't disappointed. Thrust into the leadoff spot, Jackson, 23, had a homer, a stolen base and a .667 on-base percentage in his first six games this spring. "It's a good feeling to know that you have a good opportunity," said Jackson.
Sean Rodriguez, 2B, Rays
With three homers in his first 14 at-bats, Rodriguez made his statement in a battle among three Rays for one starting job. Rodriguez, 24, acquired from the Angels in last August's Scott Kazmir deal, is competing with Reid Brignac, 24, for the second base job. The competition has brought out the best in Brignac, too. He had seven hits in his first 14 at-bats. Right fielder Matt Joyce also is off to a strong start and remains in the picture, too. The Rays plan to use Ben Zobrist in right or second, depending on the play of the three youngsters.
Julio Borbon hit well down the 2009 stretch for the Rangers.
Julio Borbon, CF, Rangers
After his call-up last August, Borbon played well enough that Texas moved Josh Hamilton out of center to make a home for the speedster. He hit .312 and stole 19 bases in 46 games last season and was with the Rangers down the stretch.
"Having a taste from last year is a big step for me," said Borbon, 24. "I will go into this year knowing I can perform."
Borbon, a lefthanded hitter, didn't play much against lefthanders last season (2-for-16) but won't be babied this season.
"Julio doesn't need to look over his shoulder," Rangers manager Ron Washington said. "He's going to get a chance. There will be no leash on him."
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Milwaukee Brewers 2010 preview
Expectations have changed in Milwaukee. The Brewers finished 80-82 last season, a disappointment after making the playoffs in 2008. However, it was the Brewers' third consecutive season with at least 80 wins (that hadn't happened since 1987-89). With sluggers Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun in the middle of the lineup and burgeoning ace Yovani Gallardo in the rotation, expectations remain high for 2010. Beyond those three young stars, however, there are questions.
New Brewer Randy Wolf will be atop the rotation. Three questions
1. Are the veteran lefthanders the solution for the rotation?
Massive upgrades were needed for a Milwaukee rotation that finished last in the majors with a 5.37 ERA in 2009. The Brewers aggressively pursued Randy Wolf and signed him to a three-year deal. Wolf was very efficient for the Dodgers last year, though his 3.23 ERA and 1.10 WHIP resulted in only 11 wins. He fits in nicely with Gallardo, the rotation's lone bright spot last year. Milwaukee also signed Doug Davis, a former Brewer who went 9-14 with a 4.12 ERA for Arizona last season. That trio is solid, though not overwhelming.
The three starters battling for the final two spots are big question marks. Manny Parra was an enigma last season. In five starts against the Cardinals, Parra had a 2.33 ERA. In his 22 starts against everyone else, he posted a 7.33 ERA. Jeff Suppan is in the final season of his four-year deal; the $12.5 million he will earn this season is a more compelling reason to keep him in the rotation than his 5.29 ERA from 2009. Dave Bush had a career 4.45 ERA heading into last season, then stumbled to a 6.38 ERA.
"We need to commit to be more effective pitching to the bottom of the strike zone," new pitching coach Rick Peterson said, detailing his plan for improvement.
2. Will Corey Hart, Carlos Gomez and Rickie Weeks bounce back?
If those three -- who disappointed for different reasons last season -- play to their abilities, the Brewers should have a very good offense. Even with down/injury-plagued seasons from Hart and Weeks, the Brewers managed to win 80 games with an awful rotation.
Gomez can impact the game with his speed, but getting on base has been his biggest problem -- and the primary reason the Twins gave up on him. His on-base percentages by month last season: .250, .303, .286, .323, .295, .231. Gomez will hit toward the bottom of the Brewers' lineup, which should relieve some of the pressure he might have felt leading off in Minnesota.
3. Is Milwaukee wasting the Braun-Fielder combo?
It isn't as if the Brewers aren't trying to win. General manager Doug Melvin has been aggressive when it comes to adding impact players -- the trade for CC Sabathia and subsequent $100 million offer to retain him proved that -- but the Brewers don't enter 2010 as favorites to participate in the postseason. Braun is signed through 2015, but Fielder is scheduled to become a free agent after the 2011 season. Another disappointing season in 2010 won't convince him to pass up free agency.
Projected lineup
1. SS Alcides Escobar: .298 AVG at Class AAA last season, .304 in MLB.
2. 2B Rickie Weeks: Staying healthy is priority No. 1.
3. LF Ryan Braun: Elite bat: 32 HRs, 114 RBIs in '09.
4. 1B Prince Fielder: Career bests in '09: 141 RBIs, 1.014 OPS.
5. 3B Casey McGehee: 16 HRs, .301 AVG in surprising '09.
6. RF Corey Hart: New goggles could improve batting eye.
7. CF Carlos Gomez: .229 AVG, 14 SBs for Twins in '09.
8. C Gregg Zaun: 1 season with more than 110 GP in 15-year career.
Projected rotation
1. LHP Randy Wolf: 3.23 ERA, career-high 34 starts for Dodgers in '09.
2. RHP Yovani Gallardo: 3.73 ERA, 1.31 WHIP led rotation in '09.
3. LHP Doug Davis: Also started NL-best 34 games last season.
4. RHP Jeff Suppan: 29 wins, 4.93 ERA in three seasons with Brewers.
5. LHP Manny Parra: 10 wins, 4.39 ERA in '08; 11 wins, 6.36 ERA in '09.
Projected closer
RHP Trevor Hoffman: 1.83 ERA, 0.91 WHIP as 41-year-old last season.
Related Links Grades
Offense: B. The 3-4 combo of Braun and Fielder matches up with any in baseball. But there are issues. Will Hart and Weeks bounce back? Can Casey McGehee repeat his '09 production? Can Zaun handle an increased workload? Can Gomez boost his on-base percentage above .300?
Pitching: C. The staff is improved from last season, when Gallardo and Hoffman were the only things keeping it from an F. Parra has the ability to become a No. 2 or 3 starter; if he finds that type of consistency, it really would improve the rotation. Trevor Hoffman is solid, as always, in the ninth inning.
Bench: C. Jody Gerut can play all three outfield positions but is better as a regular than as a spot starter. Craig Counsell hit .285 in 130 games last season and had a .542 on-base percentage as a pinch hitter. Mat Gamel has a good bat but is a defensive liability at third.
Manager: B. In his previous four seasons as manager, all with the A's, Ken Macha's teams had finished at least 14 games above .500. Last season, the Brewers finished two games under .500, though it is hard to place blame on Macha for the demise of his rotation.
Sporting News prediction: The Brewers have the look and balance of a .500 squad again. That should result in another third-place finish in the NL Central -- unless the young Reds overtake them.
Coming Thursday: Reds preview.
Ryan Fagan is a staff writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com.
Garciaparra retires as member of Boston Red Sox
FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Nomar Garciaparra rejoined the Red Sox for one day and then retired, ending a 14-year career in which he won two batting titles with Boston and became a beloved player in the city.
The shortstop signed a one-day contract with his former team Wednesday before announcing he's leaving baseball at 36 to become an ESPN analyst.
"From the first day I had the thrill of putting on a Red Sox uniform and playing in front of all the great fans at Fenway Park, I have felt at home in Boston," Garciaparra said in a statement. "While I had the privilege of playing with other legendary teams, I always saw myself retiring in a Red Sox uniform."
Garciaparra played parts of nine seasons in Boston. He was a six-time All-Star who captured the 1997 American League Rookie of the Year Award and won batting crowns in 1999 and 2000.
He also has a place in Red Sox lore for being part of a four-team trade in 2004 that helped the club win its first World Series in 86 years.
"I felt like I was there," Garciaparra said, referring to the championship celebration. "In Boston there's something greater than an individual player winning a World Series. When I was there I realized there's something bigger than us winning a World Series. It's winning a World Series for these people."
General manager Theo Epstein, who grew up in the Boston area, was responsible for the trade that dispatched Garciaparra.
"We've been fortunate over the years to maintain a relationship after the trade," Epstein said. "I think both of us understood at the time that it wasn't about Nomar and it wasn't about me. It was just baseball trades that happen. They're about what's going on with the team at the time and certain things that had to happen. But, it didn't change what Nomar meant to the Red Sox."
Terry Francona, who took over as Red Sox manager in 2004, saw just the last few months of Garciaparra's time at Fenway Park.
"His last part in Boston was tough," Francona said. "He was kind of Boston-ed out. It had kind of wore on him for whatever reasons. Sometimes it's time to move on. That doesn't mean he's a bad person. I think the fact he's come back kind of shows that."
Garciaparra's teammates - the beneficiaries of his acrobatic defense and clutch hitting - found it appropriate that he retired in a Boston uniform.
"He was a Red Sox for a long time and I think he'll always be remembered as a Red Sox," said pitcher Tim Wakefield, who was Garciaparra's teammate for the shortstop's entire stay in Boston. "For the organization to sign him to a one-day deal and have him retire as a Red Sox is pretty special. I'm really happy for him. I wish he was still playing but sometimes our careers take different paths."
Garciaparra threw out the ceremonial first pitch before Wednesday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays, with Jason Varitek catching. Garciaparra and Varitek were teammates in Boston and at Georgia Tech.
"Nomar will always hold a special place in Red Sox history and in the hearts of Red Sox Nation," owner John Henry said. "His accomplishments on the field and in the community place him among the greatest players to wear a Red Sox uniform. We are very appreciative that Nomar is ending his career where it began."
Garciaparra spent the past five seasons with the Cubs, Dodgers and A's. He had a .313 career average with 229 home runs and 936 RBIs.
Garciaparra was in the thick of the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry but always earned the respect of his opponents in New York.
"I always enjoyed playing against Boston because of Nomar," Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter said. "I used to enjoy being mentioned with him."
Added Alex Rodriguez: "I love Nomar. He's a great player and a friend."
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AP Sports Writer Howie Rumberg in Tampa, Fla., contributed to this report.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Added Alex Rodriguez: "I love Nomar. He's a great player and a friend."