The Colorado Rockies and Todd Helton agreed Thursday to a two-year, $9.9-million US contract extension that runs through the 2013 season.

Brian Giles says the pain in his arthritic right knee is getting worse, and the 39-year-old outfielder informed the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday he will retire.

All-star shortstop Jose Reyes has been told to rest and refrain from athletic activity for two to eight weeks until his thyroid activity levels normalize, another blow to the New York Mets before opening day.

Left-handers Eddie Guardado and Shawn Estes have been released by the Washington Nationals in the first round of spring training cuts. The Nationals also reassigned six players to their minor-league camp Thursday.

Baseball will return to Ottawa Stadium this summer in the form of a team in Ontario's Intercounty Baseball League, the oldest baseball league in Canada. The league has been in continuous operation since 1919.

Blue Jays pitching prospect Kyle Drabek hurled two scoreless innings in a 4-2 Grapefruit League loss to the Philadelphia Phillies at Dunedin, Fla., on Wednesday.

Los Angeles Angels centre-fielder Torii Hunter insisted Wednesday that he meant no harm toward black Latino players when he referred to them as "impostors."

Nomar Garciaparra signed a one-day contract as a member of the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday and then announced his retirement.

Alex Rodriguez says his lawyers are setting up an interview with federal authorities as part of an investigation into a Canadian doctor who is the focus of a cross-border drug-smuggling case involving human growth hormone.

Cubs general manager Jim Hendry says Milton Bradley should stop blaming the team, manager and fans for his failure to produce during his tumultuous season in Chicago.

Willie Davis, a two-time all-star and three-time Gold Glover in centre field, was found dead in his home Tuesday in Burbank, Calif. He was 69.

Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt said Tuesday his estranged wife doesn't need nearly $1 million US a month in temporary support because she has assets worth more than $75 million.

Minnesota Twins all-star closer Joe Nathan has a torn ligament in his throwing elbow, the club said on Tuesday.

First baseman Todd Helton has agreed to a contract restructuring and extension that will allow him to finish his career where it began, with the Colorado Rockies.

Arizona manager A.J. Hinch says there's an increasing chance that Brandon Webb will start the season on the disabled list.

Brian Giles says the pain in his arthritic right knee is getting worse, and the 39-year-old outfielder informed the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday that he will retire.

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.

Los Angeles Angels center fielder Torii Hunter called black Latino baseball players "impostors" when it comes to the appearance of the number of African-Americans in the major leagues.

Torii Hunter's words were poorly chosen, but he made a valid point.

The Colorado Rockies and Todd Helton agreed on Thursday to a two-year, $9.9 million contract extension that runs through the 2013 season.

Brandon Wood waited three long years to be the Los Angeles Angels third baseman. When he arrived at the Angels spring training camp, the door of opportunity was wide open.

Los Angeles center fielder Torii Hunter was at first startled, and then angered Wednesday when comments he made about diversity in baseball were construed as potentially racist.

Cubs general manager Jim Hendry says Milton Bradley should stop blaming the team, manager and fans for his failure to produce during his tumultuous season in Chicago.

Tampa Bay Rays prized left-hander David Price, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 draft, left Wednesday's game against the Boston Red Sox in the bottom of the second inning after being hit on the right hand by the barrel of a shattered bat.

They're always subject to change, but here's a look at how American League teams figure to line up from 1 to 9 to start the season and what the implications are for fantasy owners.

Willie Davis, a speedy center fielder who collected two World Series rings, three Gold Gloves and was a two-time All-Star during his 14 seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has died. He was 69.

Fans look down from their seats onto the baseball field, see dark-colored skin and might assume they are African-American players.

The Minnesota Twins became the latest team forced to change plans, telling their scouts on a conference call Monday to start searching for a closer. All-Star Joe Nathan, who has a major league-leading 246 saves since 2004, was found to have a severely torn elbow ligament that is likely to require season-ending surgery.

The Kansas City Royals spent this spring raving about their depth, believing they have the talent and versatility to finally compete in the American League Central.

Ozzie Guillen is known for getting to the point fast, and the Chicago White Sox manager made a quick and strong point with infield prospect Dayan Viciedo.

Two-time All-Star Hank Blalock has agreed to a minor league contract with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Colorado Rockies closer Huston Street says he has been notified that federal investigators might want to talk to him about a Canadian doctor being investigated in probes involving HGH and another drug.

Hal Steinbrenner says the New York Yankees won't alter their policy against contract extensions and will deal with Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and Joe Girardi after the season.

Minnesota Twins All-Star closer Joe Nathan has a torn ligament in his throwing elbow.

Hunter Pence says he knows his time eventually will come to be a leader of the Houston Astros. When general manager Ed Wade heard his right fielder say that, he looked at his watch.

No one is suggesting the New York Yankees return the 2009 World Series trophy. And maybe Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cliff Lee would have still overpowered everyone in the postseason.

Muhammad Ali provided the San Diego Padres will the thrill of a lifetime when he made a clubhouse visit on Monday.

Baseball commissioner Bud Selig says it's too soon to determine whether a blood test for human growth hormone can be used for minor leaguers.

Jason Heyward made his first spring training homer a memorable one.

Yankees closer Mariano Rivera threw 34 pitches during his first batting practice session Monday.

What's old is new again at the Minnesota Twins new ballpark.

To say Brandon Webb has hit a wall in his comeback attempt might be laying it on too thick. But the former ace clearly has a fence to scale if he hopes to make it back from shoulder surgery and it's been a process that seems to yield new highs and lows every other day.

Josh Johnson was 15-5 for the Florida Marlins last season. But the numbers from the 26-year-old right-handed pitcher that say more about the future of the team are four and 39.

Eight baseball men, representing virtually every facet of the game, gathered in the twilight for a roundtable discussion on ways to improve the national pastime.

No CC, no Sheets ... no chance? Milwaukee's starting rotation was awful in 2009, so the Brewers brought in pitching guru Rick Peterson, who will apply what is being studied in his biomechanics lab, Danny Knobler says.

Five things to know about the Milwaukee Brewers for the 2010 season.

Instead of signing a power bat, Seattle gave Chone Figgins $36 million, asked him to play second and hit behind Ichiro. Figgins and the M's say they're ready to handle the increased expectations, Danny Knobler says.

Five things to know about the Seattle Mariners for the 2010 season.

Arizona manager A.J. Hinch says there's an increasing chance that Brandon Webb will start the season on the disabled list.

The Colorado Rockies and Todd Helton agreed on Thursday to a two-year, $9.9 million contract extension that runs through the 2013 season.

All-Star shortstop Jose Reyes has been told to rest and refrain from athletic activity for 2 to 8 weeks until his thyroid levels normalize, another blow to the New York Mets before opening day.

Brian Giles says the pain in his arthritic right knee is getting worse, and the 39-year-old outfielder informed the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday that he will retire.

Left-handers Eddie Guardado and Shawn Estes have been released by the Washington Nationals in the first round of spring training cuts.

Cuban Leslie Anderson has agreed in principle to a contract with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Hall of Famers Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Orlando Cepeda and Gaylord Perry gathered for a little reunion and some good-natured ribbing.

Carl Crawford and Jayson Werth working alongside their heirs apparent

Mets shortstop Jose Reyes has been told to rest and refrain from athletic activity until his thyroid levels normalize.

Diamondbacks manager A.J. Hinch says there's an increasing chance that Brandon Webb will start the season on the disabled list.

Dodgers outfielder Brian Giles retires.

The Colorado Rockies and Todd Helton agreed on Thursday to a two-year, $9.9 million contract extension that runs through the 2013 season.

Large, eager crowds greet Dodgers upon arrival in Taiwan.

Longtime Boston Red Sox shortstop Nomar Garciaparra announced his retirement Wednesday.

Angels outfielder Torii Hunter said that black Latin players are impostors when it comes to the number of African-American players.

Milton Bradley has 30 million reasons to like Jim Hendry.

Dodgers hitting coach Don Mattingly confirmed that there have been talks about him succeeding Joe Torre.

The Red Sox and Josh Beckett have had 'substantive discussions' on a new contract.

Albert Pujols was expected to rejoin the St. Louis Cardinals' lineup on Wednesday, but his return has been pushed back at least one more day.

Four Dominican Summer League players have been suspended for 50 games following positive tests for steroids under baseball's minor league drug program.

Alex Rodriguez says his lawyers are setting up an interview with federal authorities as part of an investigation into a Canadian doctor who is the focus of a cross-border drug smuggling case involving human growth hormone.

Nationals catcher Jesus Flores is likely to begin the season on the disabled list because his surgically repaired shoulder has been slow to heal.

At Contact Football Camps (http://www.ContactFootball.com) each camper practices with and learns from NFL pros and coaches, as well as college coaches from top football schools across the country including camp director E.J. Mills. (PRWeb Mar 9, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/football/camps/prweb3702554.htm

The leading athletic recruiting service combines with Hobsons to provide users with the leading college research resource for potential student-athletes. The Colleges section within beRecruited allows registered users to research the most comprehensive data set for athletic and academic information available. (PRWeb Mar 9, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/03/prweb3700254.htm

RV resorts gear up for baseball fans as spring training Cactus League schedule is set (PRWeb Mar 4, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/03/prweb3678384.htm

Rising to the challenge of a complex economy separated the winners from the also-rans in 2009. In the sports industry, it earned a select group of retailers—including The DawgDen of Seattle, Washington— the Rising Star Award from the Sports Licensing and Tailgate Show in Las Vegas. (PRWeb Mar 4, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/03/prweb3682014.htm

Team Cowboy now offers photo sharing with commenting, slide shows and team albums, which enables collaboration and sharing for recreational sports teams. (PRWeb Mar 4, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/manage_sports_team/teamcowboy/prweb3683104.htm

BC Sports welcomes the start of spring training with a spring cleaning sale on items throughout the store. Helmets, Licensed caps, and Reebok ® NFL jerseys on sale now*. Released player jerseys available at drastic markdown. In an ongoing effort to meet customer needs, BC Sports has launched a new email sign up page, allowing customers to personalize the emails they receive from BC Sports. (PRWeb Mar 4, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/03/prweb3676274.htm

Founded by the extraordinary coach and teacher Hubert Vogelsinger in 1965, the Academy offers a unique, dynamic soccer environment in which players master the mental, physical and technical skills of the game. (PRWeb Mar 3, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/soccer/camps/prweb3675274.htm

Indie Mic members of Pop & Rock Music given a chance to be promoted in T. V. commercial. Indie Music Artists from various genres such as:Hip Hop, Country& Pop Music, are also to be promoted. (PRWeb Mar 1, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010indieartists/2indiemic/prweb3396094.htm

Play Ball! The Cactus League Experience chronicles the 100 year history of major league baseball spring training in Arizona from the barnstorming days before statehood to the inauguration of the Cactus League in 1947 to the present day, with 15 teams playing the 2010 spring training season. (PRWeb Feb 28, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/02/prweb3659534.htm

A new sports community based website called UsDailySport.com focuses on all major sports, where fans can view scores, post blogs, participate in polls, read news, debate with other sport fans, play contests, and win prizes. (PRWeb Feb 26, 2010)

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/02/prweb3651064.htm

Cardinals SP Jaime Garcia allowed one run on two hits in Thursday's defeat of the Marlins. Garcia walked three and struck out two.

Cardinals SP Kyle Lohse allowed just two hits over four shutout innings Thursday as St. Louis defeated the Marlins 5-3. Lohse struck out two and didn't issue a walk.

MLB.com reports that Astros RP Brandon Lyon (shoulder) will pitch to hitters for the first time this spring Friday when he throws live batting practice.

MLB.com reports that Astros C Jason Castro's originally scheduled Thursday start was pushed back until at least Friday as he continues to deal with the stomach flu.

MLB.com reports that Astros 1B Lance Berkman will have his troublesome left knee examined on Friday. Berkman is back playing, but has had the knee drained twice.

MLB.com reports that Astros SP Roy Oswalt, who saw his Thursday start rained out, threw a 58-pitch simulated game to live hitters instead.

The YES Network reports that Yankees SS Derek Jeter was scratched Thursday with the flu.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Rangers C Jarrod Saltalamacchia (shoulder) won't play until at least this weekend.

Washington RHP Livan Hernandez threw a simulated game Wednesday and is scheduled to make his spring training debut Sunday. Hernandez, signed to a minor league contract earlier this month, will pitch in relief of the scheduled starter, RHP Stephen Strasburg.

The San Francisco Chronicle reports that A's RP Joey Devine (tendinitis) was feeling much better Thursday and will do some throwing Friday.

The Everett Herald reports that Mariners 3B Jack Hannahan (groin) hasn't played in a week.

The St. Pete Times reports that Rays C Dioner Navarro suffered a left thumb contusion Thursday after getting hit by an errant pickoff throw. He will have X-rays taken.

Brian Giles says the pain in his arthritic right knee is getting worse, and the 39-year-old outfielder informed the Dodgers on Thursday that he will retire.

Arizona manager A.J. Hinch says there's an increasing chance Brandon Webb will start the season on the DL. Webb reached what Hinch called a "plateau" in his comeback from shoulder surgery. He has not thrown a bullpen session for a week after saying he felt "stagnant" and was not making the progress he expected. Since then, the 2006 NL Cy Young Award winner has only been playing catch. Hinch said Thursday that Webb felt better after Wednesday's throwing session than he had in some time, and a bullpen outing could be scheduled soon. Webb tentatively had been penciled in as the team's No. 3 starter with his first outing April 7.

MLive.com reports that Tigers 3B Brandon Inge will make his spring debut Saturday. “He’s going to play Saturday, three innings in the field, unless something goes wrong between now and then,” Tigers manager Jim Leyland said Thursday.

MLB.com reports that Reds SS Chris Burke (broken knuckle on right ring finger) started swinging at bat on Wednesday.

Washington RHP Livan Hernandez threw a simulated game Wednesday and is scheduled to make his spring training debut Sunday. Hernandez, signed to a minor league contract earlier this month, will pitch in relief of the scheduled starter, RHP Stephen Strasburg.

MLB.com reports that Reds 2B Aaron Miles (fractured finger) is expected to get his first game action on Friday. "It's slight pain but the doctor said I'm not going to hurt it at all," said Miles. "The fracture was in a real good spot and to go be as aggressive as I want. As long as I go out there and make the plays, I'm good to go. I can't hurt it more."

Mets shortstop Jose Reyes has been told to rest and refrain from athletic activity until his thyroid levels normalize. Reyes was taken out of the lineup March 4 for additional medical tests, and the team said Tuesday he has an overactive thyroid. New York said Thursday that Reyes has been told to change his diet and will be able to resume playing baseball when his thyroid levels are normal. His agent, Peter Greenberg, said Reyes will be sidelined for 2-to-8 weeks. He missed most of last season with an unrelated leg injury.

The Colorado Rockies and Todd Helton have agreed to a two-year, $9.9 million contract extension that runs through the 2013 season. As part of the deal announced on Thursday by the Rockies, the first baseman also agreed to defer $13.1 million of his $19 million salary in 2011 over a 10-year period beginning in 2014. "We reached out for Todd in the wintertime, and had quiet discussions," Rockies general manager Dan O'Dowd said. "He understood what we were trying to do and wanted to retire as a Rockie. We think he can be a very productive player for the next years."

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Cardinals SS Brendan Ryan, who is dealing with a wrist injury, was supposed to be able to pinch run on Wednesday, but had an ingrown toenail removed and was scratched instead.

Washington manager Jim Riggleman expects Chris Duncan to compete for a reserve spot on the opening day roster. Riggleman has liked what he has seen so far from Duncan, who went 0 for 5 with an RBI on Wednesday, including two strikeouts in the late innings with runners in scoring position. "In your idle time as a manager when you are scribbling out lineups and rosters on napkins, there are some scenarios where he is there and there are some where he is not," Riggleman said prior to Wednesday's game. "He's competing and he's going to make it a tough decision for us." Former manager Tony La Russa expects Duncan to help the Nationals. "I think what's going to benefit Chris is health," La Russa said. "He's been beat up, and a healthy Chris Duncan is an impact type of a productive player."

The San Francisco Chronicle reports that A's SP Justin Duchscherer (back) will throw to hitters Friday and could see game action next week.

The Royals have cut the following players from camp: 3B Mike Moustakas, OF David Lough, SP Danny Duffy, OF Derrick Robinson, 1B Ernesto Mejia, INF Mario Lisson and C Steve Lerud.

The Reds have reassigned RP Alexander Smit, C Brandon Yarbrough, OF Danny Dorn, C Chris Denove and RP Jose Arrendondo to minor league camp.

The San Jose Mercury News reports that an MRI on Giants SP Joe Martinez's elbow showed only inflammation, not structural issues.

MLB.com reports that Marlins OF Mike Stanton, who has hit two homers already this spring, definitely has a chance of making the team. "Funnier things have happened," manager Fredi Gonzalez said. "Obviously, we'll sit down and make sure it's the right move, the right decision. But for me to say, "absolutely not," I can't do that right now. I can't say that he's not going to make the team. I can't absolutely tell you, 100 percent that he won't. We'll sit down and decide how that plays out."

The St. Pete Times reports that Rays OF Matt Joyce was scratched from the lineup Thursday because of a sore elbow.

The Tampa Tribune reports that Rays SP David Price, who took a broken bat off his non-pitching hand Wednesday, is scheduled to pitch in a minor league game on Monday.

MLB.com reports that Marlins OF Cody Ross (thumb, groin) took batting practice on Thursday and might return to the lineup on Friday.

The Nationals have sent C Derek Norris to minor league camp.

The Nationals have assigned RP Logan Kensing, RP Joel Peralta, RP Victor Garate, RP Ryan Speier, C Derek Norris and OF Jerry Owens to minor league camp.

The Nationals have released SP Shawn Estes and RP Eddie Guardado.

Blue Jays SP Brett Cecil, who is one of many candidates trying to earn a spot in the starting rotation, made his first start of the spring in a "B" game Wednesday against the Phillies. He wasn't particularly sharp, limited strictly to fastballs and changeups because of the cut on his left thumb that sidelined him up to this point. "Now I'm behind everybody and everybody's going to have one more outing than I do," he told the Toronto Sun. "It's definitely frustrating when something this small (his thumb) sets you back for so long."

Giants OF Nate Schierholtz, who hadn't played since fouling a ball off his left knee Sunday, returned to the lineup Wednesday at the Cubs. He went 1 for 3 with a walk.

Pirates SP Daniel McCutchen, vying for the No. 5 spot in the rotation, struck out two in two perfect innings Wednesday against the Orioles. "He was sharp," Pirates manager John Russell said. "He's a command-type guy, and I think each outing he's going to do better. He was on." McCutchen now has a 2.25 ERA in four innings.

Orioles SP Jason Berken, who seemed like a long shot for a rotation spot after posting a 6.54 ERA in 24 starts last year, is off to a good start this spring. He allowed one hit and recorded one strikeout Wednesday at the Pirates, giving him four scoreless innings this spring.

Orioles SP Brad Bergesen yielded two runs and three hits over 1 1/3 innings Wednesday at the Pirates in his first start for the Orioles. The right-hander was slowed at the start of spring training after hurting his shoulder while filming a promotional spot in December, and his rookie season was cut short last year after being hit in the shin by a line drive. "It was my first time facing live hitters since July 30, so that part was great," Bergesen said. "From just a pitching standpoint, I worked behind too many guys. That's to be expected at this point and hope to get better and better in each outing."

Pirates SP Zach Duke found a silver lining in his rough start Wednesday night against the Orioles. Duke settled down after allowing three runs in the first and pitched 2 2/3 innings, giving up four hits and three walks with three strikeouts. "My stuff was definitely good," he said "But I was falling behind with my sinker, and I need that pitch to be effective. That's what cost me." Duke's spring ERA through three starts is 7.71.

Rockies SP Jeff Francis made his second spring start Wednesday against the Royals after missing the 2009 season following shoulder surgery. He pitched three scoreless innings, allowing two hits with one walk and two strikeouts. In his first spring start Friday, he allowed four hits, two walks and four runs in two innings. "Much better than the last time," Francis said, "and I felt like I could feel the ball out front and get the ball to the plate on a good angle and keep it down for the most part."

Royals SP Zack Greinke, who pitched three scoreless innings in his spring debut Friday, added three more Wednesday at the Rockies. He gave up just one hit and one walk, recording two strikeouts. "Still not there, but it's better than it usually is this time of the spring," Greinke said. "Fastball command has been pretty good. It has some good life on it, but mainly the changeup's way better than it usually is this time of the year. Secondary pitches are usually bad early on in spring." Greinke said he threw one slider and no curveballs against the Rockies.

Royals SS Mike Aviles, who needed Tommy John surgery last year and missed most of the season, went 2 for 3 in his spring debut Wednesday against the Rockies.

Rockies OF Brad Hawpe, who has yet to make his spring debut because of an ingrown toenail, didn't return as expected Wednesday against the Royals. According to the Denver Post, he might return Thursday instead.

White Sox SP Daniel Hudson, who is trying to win the fifth rotation spot, had another poor start Wednesday at the Athletics, allowing two runs on four hits with one walk and one strikeout in two innings. He allowed three runs in three innings in his first spring start.

White Sox OF Jordan Danks made a pretty diving catch on Rajai Davis' hard liner leading off the fifth inning Wednesday at the Athletics, giving manager Ozzie Guillen plenty to think about when it comes to where to send the club's top-five prospect. He might be headed to Triple-A Charlotte, but his defense already is considered good enough to be at the major-league level. He went 1 for 2 with a walk Wednesday and scored a run. Danks is the brother of Sox starting pitcher John Danks. "Jordan has really really impressed us a lot. He's pretty special," Guillen said. "He's got a chance to be in the big leagues and play. This kid has good at-bats, good base-running. Maybe the best outfielder we have in our minor-league system."

Athletics 3B Eric Chavez, expected to play a utility role this season after missing most of the last two seasons due to injury, hit his first two home runs of the spring Wednesday against the White Sox -- a two-run shot in the first inning and a solo drive in the sixth. He finished 2 for 3 and is batting .500 (4 for 8) this spring. "I'm completely confident," he said. "I just never know what's in store for tomorrow. I'm just at peace with waking up every day coming to the field and enjoying myself, and I'm in no position to start predicting what's going to happen tomorrow."

Never one to post big spring numbers, Athletics SP Ben Sheets considered his short outing in a 9-5 loss Wednesday to the White Sox a step in the right direction. Sheets, who missed all of 2009 recovering from elbow surgery, allowed six runs -- five earned -- on five hits and a walk in 2 2/3 innings. "I'm trying to mow them down. It just don't go down," Sheets said. "I'm not trying to give up five or six runs. It's March 10, and you have bad days. I don't think it's outside the ordinary. I think this is a normal spring training for me. I haven't had much success down here. I just try and get better every time out. I'm definitely not result-oriented."

Mariners SP Garrett Olson, who is contending for the final spot in the starting rotation, appeared in his third spring contest Wednesday at the Rangers and pitched 1 1/3 innings -- his most yet. He issued one walk.

Mariners SP Luke French, who pitched two scoreless innings in his spring debut Friday, added two more Wednesday at the Rangers. He allowed three hits and recorded two strikeouts. French is one of four pitchers competing for the final spot in the Mariners rotation.

Rangers RHP Neftali Feliz, who is trying to win a rotation spot after debuting as a reliever last season, allowed four runs on four hits and one walk in two innings Wednesday against the Mariners, recording three strikeouts. He has allowed six earned runs in four innings this spring.

Rangers LHP C.J. Wilson, getting a chance to move from the bullpen to the starting rotation, allowed a leadoff single to Ichiro Suzuki and a leadoff walk to Josh Wilson in the third inning Wednesday against the Mariners. Both scored. Wilson struck out two, walked one and yielded one hit in his three innings. "I ended up throwing my full allotment of pitches, which is good," Wilson said. "The thing they have been stressing with me a lot is minimizing big innings and just going out there and challenging guys to hit the ball and put it in play."

DH Mike Sweeney, a 15-year veteran who signed a minor-league deal with the Mariners right before camp, went 2 for 3 with a pair of doubles, one of them driving in three runs, Wednesday at the Rangers. Sweeney is 10 for 13 (.769) in his four spring games with three doubles, a home run and six RBI.

Mariners SP Cliff Lee threw 36 of 46 pitches for strikes over three solid innings in his delayed spring debut Wednesday at the Rangers. "I want to locate fastballs, that's the No. 1 thing for me right now. So I tried to do that more than anything," Lee said. "I was pleased with where that was at, so I was able to use more pitches than I anticipated." Lee gave up a run and five singles, struck out one and walked one. The left-hander benefited from two double plays. "I'm glad he's on our team," manager Don Wakamatsu said. "It's nice to have a guy that understands how to pitch out of some jams a little bit, a guy that doesn't lose his composure, that's been to the World Series, won a Cy Young. ... We're hoping the influence is even more for these other guys to learn from."

Mariners SS Jack Wilson, who missed a few games with a tight hamstring, returned to the lineup Wednesday at the Rangers.

Mariners manager Don Wakamatsu said SP Erik Bedard, recovering from surgery to repair a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder, is long-tossing with no problems. "He is still a ways away from getting on the mound, but everything right now is extremely good," Wakamatsu said. Bedard might be sidelined until June.

Although Yorvit Torrealba's son is safe, the Padres catcher still fears for the rest of his family. Nine months after his son was kidnapped by five men in Caracas, Venezuela, and later returned unharmed, Torrealba said his son and wife are now living in Miami and adjusting to their new lives. The rest of Torrealba's family remains in Venezuela, and he's concerned for their safety. "We're the big target now," Torrealba said of he and his major-league brethren. "Obviously, we don't go to places we used to. Now kidnapping has become normal. It's easy money."

Trevor Reckling, one of the Angles' top pitching prospects, gave up a run on one hit and three walks Tuesday against the Reds. He also recorded one strikeout. The left-hander went 9-9 with a 2.68 ERA in 26 starts between Class A Rancho Cucamonga and Double-A Arkansas last season. "Reckling got a little bit tired, but you could see his stuff was there," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said.

Reds SP Travis Wood, who is competing for the fifth spot in the starting rotation, pitched two scoreless innings Wednesday at the Angels. He allowed one hit and one walk, recording one strikeout. He has now pitched four scoreless innings this spring.

Reds pitching prospect Mike Leake threw two crisp innings in Wednesday's 6-0 victory over the Angels, allowing one hit and one walk with one strikeout. The eighth overall pick in last year's draft is a contender for the final spot in the Reds' starting rotation and is off to a good start with three scoreless innings. "It was kind of fun facing some major-leaguers," he said, "facing some people I've been watching on TV. ... I was hoping it was their big guys. That's what I need to face. It's kind of like a dream come true right now."

Reds RHP Mike Lincoln, who is competing for the role of fifth starter even though he hasn't started a game in the majors since 2000, was much better in his second spring start Wednesday at the Angels, recording two strikeouts in two perfect innings. He allowed four runs and seven hits in 1 1/3 in his first spring start Friday.

Padres SP Wade LeBlanc made his first start of the spring on Wednesday against the Indians. In three innings, he allowed one earned run on four hits and one walk. He struck out one batter.

Indians SP David Huff made his second start of the spring on Wednesday, giving up one earned run in three innings against the Padres. He allowed three hits and walked a batter.

Padres C Mike Collins hit his first home run of the spring on Tuesday, taking one deep off of Indians pitcher Mike Gosling in his only at-bat.

Indians outfielder Grady Sizemore hit his first home run of the spring on Wednesday, a grand slam off Padres' pitcher Jackson Quezeda. He finished 2 for 2 with a pair of runs and a base on balls.

Padres pitcher Aaron Poreda had a forgettable outing against the Indians on Wednesday, allowing six earned runs while failing to record an out. Poreda faced seven batters in total, all of whom scored, giving up three hits and three walks to earn his first loss of the spring. "Everybody has a bad day and you've just got to forget about it," he said. "I didn't have command. My slider was backing up over the plate and getting hit."

Indians outfielder Matt LaPorta was hitless in his spring training debut against the Padres on Wednesday. "I had a tough time sleeping last night, I was so excited," he said. Despite the lack of sleep, LaPorta started at first base, and finished 0 for 1 in his first game following offseason surgeries on his hip and toe. "The toe does a lot, controls your walking, balance, running," he explained. "My hip rehab took about a month and a half longer because of it, but I'm fine now."

Brewers SP Yovani Gallardo struggled in his second start of the spring, giving up three earned runs in three innings to the Padres on Wednesday. He surrendered a three-run homer to Max Venable. He walked two while striking out one.

Padres SP Mat Latos didn't allow an earned run in three innings against the Brewers on Wednesday. He scattered three hits and struck out a pair of batters.

Padres pitcher Sean Gallagher started his first game of the spring on Wednesday, allowing one earned run through three innings against the Brewers. He allowed two hits while striking out three.

Padres outfielder Will Venable smacked a three-run homer against the Brewers on Wednesday, his first round-tripper of the spring. He hit 12 home runs last season after being called up in June. He finished the day 1 for 3, bringing his average to .308 in 13 spring at-bats.

Cubs shortstops really hit on Wednesday in a loss to the Giants in exhibition action. Batting first to start the game, starter Ryan Theriot went 3 for 3, all singles. Once Theriot left, Starlin Castro took over and went 2 for 2, both singles. Theriot added his second stolen base of the spring and is batting .692. Castro is batting .545.

Cubs shortstops really hit on Wednesday in a loss to the Giants in exhibition action. Batting first to start the game, starter Ryan Theriot went 3 for 3, all singles. Once Theriot left, Starlin Castro took over and went 2 for 2, both singles. Theriot added his second stolen base of the spring and is batting .692. Castro is batting .545.

Padres RP Mike M. Adams recorded a save in his spring training debut against the Brewers on Wednesday. Adams pitched a scoreless ninth inning, allowing one hit and one walk while striking out a batter.

Xavier Nady made his Cubs debut Wednesday, going 1 for 2 as the DH, but manager Lou Piniella said he won't be recovered enough from Tommy John surgery to play outfield regularly at least until June. Until then, Piniella said, Nady will be used as a pinch-hitter and occasional outfield fill-in. When Nady does play left or right, the infielders will have to range well into the outfield to take his throws. "Nady can hit," Piniella said. "We've got to get him out on the field and get his at-bats. We don't care about throwing."

Giants SP Jonathan O. Sanchez allowed three singles, walked none and struck out five in three shutout innings for the Giants in Wednesday's win over the Cubs. "My fastball was jumping out of my hand, I had a good split and my curveball was working," said Sanchez, who pitched a no-hitter last July 10 and finished the season with 177 strikeouts in 163 1/3 innings. "I'm not ready, but I'm close."

Pablo Sandoval now has bragging rights over Carlos Zambrano, the pitcher he grew up idolizing back home in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. Still, the Giants third baseman isn't ready to boast just yet. "I'm not going to tell him anything," Sandoval said Wednesday after his grand slam off Zambrano led San Francisco to a 5-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs. "I don't want to remember that. That's spring training." Sandoval said if he homers off Zambrano during the season, "I'm going to call him and say, 'I got you!"' He said Zambrano was talking trash when the two recently had dinner together, but there wasn't much Sandoval could say back. In their only matchup last season, Sandoval went hitless in four at-bats. "It's different in the season," Sandoval said. "He's one of the best pitchers in the National League." With three All-Star Game appearances, Zambrano used to be just that, but he won only nine games last season. So he worked out hard over the winter and arrived to camp in top shape. He said he wasn't the least bit discouraged after giving up five third-inning runs on three soft singles, a hit batter and Sandoval's homer. "They got lucky with bloopers, and their big man ... obviously, he's a good hitter. I have to give him credit," Zambrano said. "This is spring training. Just get my work in and build my arm. My fastball is running good and all my pitches are good."

Pablo Sandoval now has bragging rights over Carlos Zambrano, the pitcher he grew up idolizing back home in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. Still, the Giants third baseman isn't ready to boast just yet. "I'm not going to tell him anything," Sandoval said Wednesday after his grand slam off Zambrano led San Francisco to a 5-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs. "I don't want to remember that. That's spring training." Sandoval said if he homers off Zambrano during the season, "I'm going to call him and say, 'I got you!"' He said Zambrano was talking trash when the two recently had dinner together, but there wasn't much Sandoval could say back. In their only matchup last season, Sandoval went hitless in four at-bats. "It's different in the season," Sandoval said. "He's one of the best pitchers in the National League."

Cardinals 3B David Freese recorded a pair of hits in Wednesday's game against the Nationals. He started at DH, going 2 for 3 while striking out once.

The Dodgers pitched two guys with designs of making the starting rotation this spring on Wednesday against the Diamondbacks. Vicente Padilla got the start in the game and he was solid over three frames, giving up one run on four hits and a walk. Padilla added four strikeouts. He was relieved by Ramon Ortiz, who has an outside shot at the No. 5 spot. Ortiz was excellent as he did not allow a run on just one hit and two walks over three innings with three strikeouts.

The Dodgers pitched two guys with designs of making the starting rotation this spring on Wednesday against the Diamondbacks. Vicente Padilla got the start in the game and he was solid over three frames, giving up one run on four hits and a walk. Padilla added four strikeouts. He was relieved by Ramon Ortiz, who has an outside shot at the No. 5 spot, who was excellent as he did not allow a run on just one hit and two walks over three innings with three strikeouts.

Nationals outfielder Willie Harris went 2 for 4 during Wednedsday's game against the Cardinals. He had a double, a triple, a run scored and an RBI.

Arizona SP Dan Haren made his second spring appearance as the starter on Wednesday against the Dodgers in a game that ended in a 4-4 tie. Haren went 2 2/3 scoreless innings and allowed just four hits with a strikeout. He has yet to allow a run over 4 2/3 innings this spring with two strikeouts.

Nationals SP J.D. Martin allowed two earned runs on three hits during his second appearance of spring training Wednesday against the Cardinals. He recorded two strikeouts in three innings.

Dodgers RF Andre Ethier smacked his first spring home run on Wednesday against the Diamondbacks. He went 1 for 3 in the game and hit a solo shot. He's batting .231 on the spring.

Arizona INF Tony Abreu started at shortstop and led off on Wednesday in exhibition action against the Dodgers. He had a big day at the plate. Abreu went 3 for 4 and came within a double of hitting for the cycle. Abreu tripled and smashed a solo homer in the seventh inning off Jeff Weaver. It was his first HR of the spring and he's hitting .471. He also scored two runs in the game.

Nationals SP Garrett Mock was handed his first loss of the spring Wednesday against the Cardinals. In three innings, he allowed two earned runs on five hits, including a two-run homer by Allen Craig. Mock struck out three hitters.

In his second start of the spring, Red Sox SP Jon Lester pitched 2 2/3 innings, giving up one unearned on two hits and a walk with four strikeouts. "All in all, I felt like I threw the ball pretty well today," Lester said. "Timing-wise, it's still a little bit off. There's still a little bit to go there. I felt like I made some adjustments and got the ball downhill pretty good."

Cardinals SP Brad Penny threw four scoreless innings in his second start of the spring on Tuesday. "He was nails," St. Louis manager Tony La Russa said. "He had good stuff. His location was outstanding. He was very impressive." Against the Nationals, Penny allowed just one hit while striking out two batters. It was a much better performance than his previous start, in which he allowed three earned runs in two innings. "He did some things today that he didn't do in his first outing," Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan said. "He was more aggressive early in the count, controlled the counts better and was able to use all his pitches. It was a good outing for him."

Boston CF Jacoby Ellsbury went deep twice on Wednesday in exhibition action against the Rays. He led off and went 2 for 3 with three RBI. He hit a solo shot in the third inning and added a two-run blast in the fourth. He's batting .250 for the spring.

Cardinals outfielder Allen Craig went 2 for 3 in his spring training debut against the Nationals on Wednesday. He doubled, homered, scored two runs and drove in three.

The Mariners sent pitcher Ryan Feierabend (elbow) to the minor leagues Wednesday.