Lamont Likely Choice in Pittsburgh

With Jim Leyland apparently set to become the Florida Marlins’ manager as early as Wednesday, the Gene Lamont era appears ready to begin in Pittsburgh.

According to sources close to the Pirates, Lamont is expected to become the Pirates’ manager later this week, barring a breakdown in negotiations or a surprise offer from another team currently without a manager.

Lamont, who managed the Chicago White Sox for 2 1/2 seasons, would likely make about $250,000 to $300,000 per season, or one-third of Leyland’s $900,000 salary.

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Bob Quinn was replaced as general manager by the San Francisco Giants, who elevated Brian Sabean to the job.

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The average attendance at major league baseball games rose 6.4 percent this year but remained 15 percent below its level before the 1994-95 strike. The 28 teams averaged 26,889, up from 25,260 last season.