Snow’s a Hit on Return to Batter’s Box

J.T. Snow stepped into the batter’s box against live pitching for the first time since a March 11 beaning by Randy Johnson that broke his left eye socket.

The San Francisco first baseman, wearing clear plastic goggles for protection but otherwise showing no signs of the injury, had four hits in 11 at bats in a simulated game at the team’s minor league camp in Scottsdale, Ariz.

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The Boston Red Sox in the National League?

Red Sox CEO John Harrington, head of baseball’s realignment and expansion committee, said he would “have an open mind” about leaving the American League if the major leagues realign after the 1998 season.

“The fans wouldn’t like it and I can understand that, but for the good of the game I could be convinced,” Harrington said, adding that it isn’t likely to happen.

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Bob Hamelin, who hit 24 home runs in 1994 and was named AL rookie of the year, was released by the Kansas City Royals. Hamelin, 29, never regained his stroke after the player strike interrupted his rookie season.

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The Seattle Mariners told outfielder Jose Cruz Jr., 22, that he will start the season at triple-A Tacoma instead of in left field in the Kingdome. In addition, the Mariners optioned left-hander Tim Davis to Tacoma, gave right-hander Rusty Meacham his unconditional release and released outfielder Lou Frazier.

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Jeff Reboulet will start at second base for the Baltimore Orioles on opening day in place of the suspended Roberto Alomar, Manager Davey Johnson announced. Reboulet is hitting .326 this spring.

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The Cincinnati Reds intend to name the umpires’ room at Cinergy Field for the late John McSherry, who collapsed during the team’s home opener last season and later died.