MLB Quickhits, February 2, 2007
Barry Bonds, Sammy Sosa, Curt Schilling, and other updates
Feb 2, 2007
MLB QUICKHITS
2/2/07
Barry Bonds and the San Francisco Giants reach a deal, Sammy Sosa signs a minor league contract, Curt Shilling is not running for office, Roger Clemens is undecided, and Mike Matheny forced to retire.
Barry Bonds
Barry Bonds and the San Francisco Giants finalized a 15.8 million, one year contract on Monday, January 29th, after the slugger completed a physical at AT&T Park. However, the contract, which includes conditions regarding Bonds possible indictment, was not approved by the Commissioners office. Details have not been made public, but a spokesperson for the Commissioners office said the contract was not approved because it had a personal appearance provision. A new contract is being drafted and should be approved soon.
Sosa back to the minors
Sammy Sosa and the Texas Rangers came to agreement earlier this week. Sosa agreed to sign a Minor League contract with a chance to make the Major League roster out of Spring Training. If he does, Sosa will receive a 500,000 dollar one-year deal with a chance to earn 2.1 million in performance bonuses. Sosa is confident he will make the Major League roster saying his chances of failing are “one in a million.”
Curt Schilling to return after 2007
Curt Schilling publicly stated that he will not retire after the 2007 season. Saying his wife and kids were a big factor in his decision, Schilling said he’d like to play into 2008 and possibly beyond. Schilling, who is his own agent, also said he doesn't want a raise in pay, just a contract.
Clemens unsure of 2007
Roger Clemens has been spending time at Minute Maid Park throwing batting practice to Minor Leaguers, but has not publicly made clear his intentions for the 2007 season. Clemens did say that if he returns he would like to throw for one of his former teams, the Boston Red Sox, the Houston Astros, or the New York Yankees. Clemens has made it clear though that his biggest desire is to win another championship.
Matheny forced to retire
San Francisco Giant’s catcher Mike Matheny announced his retirement after his doctor refused to clear him to play. Matheny took several foul tips to his head early in the 2006 season including one that caused him memory loss, fatigue, and other symptoms of a severe concussion. Almost a year later, Matheny still experiences dizziness, times of forgetfulness, and increased heart rate after minor exertion. Known for his defensive abilities and great working relationships with pitchers, Matheny will be missed dearly.
