Braves, Orioles Interested in Ex-Padre Hoyt

LaMarr Hoyt, a trouble-plagued Cy Young award winner, cleared waivers Friday and was free to sign with another major league club after his unconditional release by the San Diego Padres.

At least two teams, the Atlanta Braves and the Baltimore Orioles, said they were interested in talking with Hoyt’s agent.

“Why wouldn’t we be (interested)?” Atlanta Manager Chuck Tanner said. “We don’t worry about what other people do. He’s a human being with a lot of talent. We’re interested because of his pitching ability.”

Hoyt, 32, who has had substance abuse problems, was put on waivers by the Padres last week, after an arbitrator said the club was wrong in dropping the right-hander last January and ordered him restored to the roster.

The Padres’ attempt to nullify their contract with Hoyt also was rescinded by the arbitrator, who held the Padres liable for $2.8 million in salary running through 1989.

Hoyt, who must follow a rehabilitation plan filed with the commissioner’s office to stay in baseball, can be signed for the prorated portion of the minimum annual salary of $62,500. The Padres are obligated to pay the rest, with an amount already deducted for a 60-day suspension by Commissioner Peter Ueberroth.