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Compiled from Times wires
© St. Petersburg Times, published November 25, 2000
Jordan says trade will have backlash
ATLANTA -- Braves rightfielder Brian Jordan said that his possible trade would have a negative impact among black fans.
"When I committed to be here five years, I expected to be here," said Jordan, 33, who signed as a free agent in November 1998. "This year I could have just given up and tried to get healthy early, but I laid it on the line and played for the team through all the pain and injuries. And here's my reward: "Thanks a lot, but we need to get rid of your salary.'
"If they do have to trade me, I'm quite sure it's going to affect the outlook in the community," Jordan said. "The Braves always said they want to attract more African-Americans. Trading away all your African-Americans that the community look up to as role models, it's kind of hard to plead your case."
With the Braves working toward a $90-million payroll for next season and hoping to sign shortstop Alex Rodriguez or pitcher Mike Hampton, Jordan and his $8.5-million salary hang in the balance. The Braves can point to his steady stream of nagging injuries, his subpar 2000 season and the possibility that Chipper Jones will move to the outfield.
After a career-high 115 RBI and his first All-Star appearance in 1999, Jordan batted .264 with 77 RBI last season, career lows for years in which he played 130 or more games. Now he feels punished for playing through two bum shoulders and a sore wrist.
"I won't be baited into this," team president Stan Kasten said. "Let the facts speak for themselves."
Ticket prices, meanwhile, will be raised by nearly 10 percent for this season. The team said prices for dugout level seats will increase by $5. The club, field and terrace level seats will increase by $3, and pavilion seats will increase by $1. Upper level prices won't change. The new prices are at $40 for dugout level, $32 for club level, $27 for field and terrace level, $18 for field pavilion and terrace pavilion, $12 for upper level, $5 for upper pavilion and $1 for Skyline tickets.
RED SOX: Ticket prices at Fenway, already one of the most expensive venues, are going up between $4 and $15. General manager Dan Duquette said the increases reflect a desire to field a winning team.