Baseball

Booklet warned players about ephedra

NEW YORK -- A booklet published nearly two years ago by Major League Baseball and the players' association warned about the dangers of ephedra, the nutritional supplement that contributed to the heatstroke death of Orioles pitcher Steve Bechler.

The 15-page booklet called "Steroids and Nutritional Supplements" was published in June 2001. It summarized the effects and side effects of 10 substances.

Regarding ephedrine, it read, "There have been a number of severe side effects reported related to the drug, including high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, seizures, strokes, heart attacks and death.

"Ephedrine also is associated with psychological side effects such as increased irritability, anxiety, tremors, paranoia, and in rare instances, a complete break with reality."

OLYMPICS: Commissioner Bud Selig all but ruled out participation of major-league players in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, saying the sport cannot interrupt its season. "The Olympic situation is quite difficult," he said at the World Congress of Sports. "The ebb and flow of the game is critical, and we can't disturb that."

SUSPENSIONS: Expos outfielder Vladimir Guerrero was suspended three games and Marlins pitcher Brad Penny five for their roles in a bench-clearing brawl Monday. Montreal infielder Jose Macias also was suspended two games. All were fined by baseball disciplinarian Bob Watson. Guerrero will pay $1,500, while the other amounts were not immediately available. Guerrero's and Penny's suspensions are scheduled to start March 31 unless they appeal them. Macias' is scheduled to begin April 4.

DODGERS: A bid for the team has gained momentum as prominent Los Angeles billionaire Eli Broad agreed to join a $600-million pitch for the team, its Chavez Ravine stadium and control of its cable TV home, Fox Sports Net 2, the Los Angeles Times reported.

METS: Manager Art Howe tried to put some closure on the bench-clearing brawl that happened Wednesday when Guillermo Mota hit Mike Piazza with a pitch. Several Dodgers have said they expect retaliation when the teams play today and Sunday in Mexico City, even though Mota is not making the trip. "We had a little chat," Howe said of Thursday's closed-door meeting with players. "Nothing is going to happen."

PIRATES: Centerfielder Kenny Lofton reached terms on a $1.025-million, one-year contract. The base salary matches Lofton's 2002 contract, with $525,000 deferred until the end of the season. He can make $475,000 in performance bonuses.

RANGERS: Shortstop Alex Rodriguez will miss at least a few days with a small herniated disc in his neck. He got a cortisone injection to relieve swelling and is expected back Sunday or Monday.

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