BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : AROUND THE MAJOR LEAGUES : Source: Steinbrenner Returns March 1

George Steinbrenner’s lawyer was told on Monday by deputy commissioner Stephen Greenberg that his client could resume active control of the New York Yankees beginning March 1.

Greenberg would not confirm the March 1 date, but a baseball source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that date was when Commissioner Fay Vincent will allow Steinbrenner to resume active control.

Greenberg said details of the change in Steinbrenner’s status will be announced within a week.

Oakland relief ace Dennis Eckersley became the second-highest paid closer when he agreed to a two-year extension with an option for a guaranteed $7.8 million.

John Franco of the New York Mets gets $3.5 million for each of the 1993 and 1994 seasons and a $1-million signing bonus.

“Who knows what money is out there?” said Eckersley, who has saved 215 games for Oakland since 1987. “It doesn’t really matter, though. I feel indebted to the A’s because of what they did to my career.”

Philadelphia Phillie Manager Jim Fregosi was given a one-year contract extension despite the club’s last-place standing in National League East.

General Manager Lee Thomas said: “I think it’s time to do this for Jimmy. I think he’s deserved it. I don’t think there is anybody who could have done a better job than he has.”