Schott Slips in the Back Way; Deal Reportedly Is Discussed

Marge Schott, embattled owner of the Cincinnati Reds, made an unexpected appearance at a National League meeting Tuesday as her attorneys and the league discussed a possible deal resolving the controversy stemming from her alleged racial slurs.

Sources familiar with the situation said the discussions centered on the possibility of Schott avoiding a long suspension and heavy fine by agreeing to withdraw from the daily operations of the Reds for a specified time while also implementing a minority hiring program with a club that has only one minority member among its 45 front-office employees.

Amid tight security, Schott entered the hotel where the winter baseball meetings are being held through a service door and could not be reached for comment after attending the league meeting. She also reportedly met privately with league President Bill White and the attorneys.

Baseball’s executive council, meanwhile, received a progress report from the committee investigating the charges against Schott. A committee member who declined to be identified said the committee is still taking testimony.