Edmonds expected to sign with Cubs

The Chicago Cubs were on the verge Wednesday of signing free-agent outfielder Jim Edmonds, released last week by San Diego.

Cubs General Manager Jim Hendry said Edmonds needed only to pass a physical.

A four-time All-Star, Edmonds, 37, was released last month after batting .178 in 26 games with one home run and six runs batted in.

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After a toughened drug agreement was passed unanimously by baseball’s executive council, Commissioner Bud Selig expects easy ratification by owners today in Milwaukee.

The deal increases the frequency of tests and the authority of the independent administrator.

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Peter Magowan dodged questions amid San Francisco Chronicle reports that he will resign Friday as managing general partner of the Giants. He has held the post since 1993… . Cincinnati Reds shortstop Jeff Keppinger will be sidelined for four to six weeks by a broken left kneecap… . Pitcher Clay Buchholz was put on the 15-day disabled list by the Boston Red Sox because of a broken nail on his right middle finger.

From Times Wire Reports