AL | Yankees not likely to add Barry Bonds

Barry Bonds in pinstripes? If nothing else, the New York Yankees talked about it.

High-ranking Yankees officials gathered for meetings at their spring training complex in Tampa, Fla., on Thursday, a day off for the team before it begins an important three-game series Friday night in Boston.

Missing injured sluggers Hideki Matsui and Jorge Posada, the Yankees discussed ways to improve for the stretch run as next Thursday's trade deadline approaches. After a three-hour meeting, co-chairman Hank Steinbrenner confirmed that one of the topics was the indicted home-run king.

"We covered everything, including Bonds," Steinbrenner said.

Steinbrenner wouldn't say if the Yankees are interested in Bonds, but it appears unlikely the team will pursue him — partly because it's so late in the season. The slugger, who turned 44 on Thursday, became a free agent when the San Francisco Giants did not bring him back this season.

A day before the All-Star game at Yankee Stadium last week, Bonds' agent, Jeff Borris, said the seven-time MVP had not received any offers.

Borris previously said Bonds would be willing to play for a prorated share of the $390,000 minimum and donate his salary to buy tickets for kids.

Baltimore: RHP Daniel Cabrera, who gave up a season-high seven earned runs in a loss to Toronto, is 1-5 in 12 starts since May 20.

Boston: With slugger David Ortiz ready to come off the disabled list, the Red Sox optioned OF Brandon Moss to AAA Pawtucket. Ortiz could be activated today.

Chicago: 3B Joe Crede, who has missed two straight games with stiffness in his lower back, could return today in Detroit.

Cleveland: The Indians have already been hit by pitches a major league-high 63 times. Last season, opposing pitchers plunked 80 Cleveland batters to set a franchise record.

Detroit: LHP Nate Robertson, tonight's starter, isn't giving the Tigers much on their investment. He signed a three-year, $21.25 million contract in January, but is 6-8 with a 5.69 ERA, the worst among qualifying AL starters.

Kansas City: OF Joey Gathright was placed on the 15-day DL with a lingering shoulder injury. The speedster is hitting .251 with a team-leading 21 stolen bases.

Los Angeles: 2B Howie Kendrick, who equaled a franchise record with three doubles Wednesday, has raised his average to .341. "Right now I'm just feeling good and trying to ride it out," he said.

Minnesota: Denard Span has been a pleasant surprise while filling in for injured OF Michael Cuddyer. Span has a .326 batting average, a .421 on-base percentage and a string of nice catches in right field.

Tampa Bay: SS Jason Bartlett was 3 for 3 against Kansas City in his first start since missing 16 games with a sprained right knee.

Texas: Rangers starters have not made it through the third inning 11 times this season. The Rangers are 4-7 in those games.

Toronto: Manager Cito Gaston is 16-12 since taking over for the fired John Gibbons on June 21.

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