Claire Always Knows Right Places to Shop

Does baseball have a list of free agents who have undergone shoulder and arm surgery? If not, how does Fred Claire consistently find these guys? His most recent acquisition is former Met shortstop Kevin Elster, who had shoulder surgery in the spring and played only six games last season. He joins Todd Worrell, he of three surgeries and currently a tendinitis sufferer.

They are the latest additions to a lengthy list. Is it true Fred was voted major league executive of the year--by the Medical Insurance Underwriters of America?

CHARLIE AHRENS

Pacific Palisades