Stieb Returns to the Majors

Dave Stieb, the winningest pitcher in Toronto history, had his contract purchased by the Blue Jays on Wednesday from their Syracuse triple-A affiliate.

The 40-year-old Stieb, who last pitched in the majors for the Chicago White Sox in 1993, is expected to join the Blue Jays today in Baltimore.

*

Jim Abbott, released by the Angels after a dreadful 1996 season, is scheduled to make another start Friday for the White Sox Class-A team at Winston-Salem, N.C., and then is expected to join the double-A Birmingham Barons this weekend.

*

Kansas City ace Kevin Appier was hospitalized in Florida because of severe stomach pains, delaying his shoulder rehabilitation indefinitely.

Tests revealed that Appier, 30, had inflammation in his colon. Appier is on the 60-day disabled list after surgery March 24 to repair a tear in his right shoulder.

*

New York Yankee reliever Mike Stanton was suspended for five games by the American League for hitting Eric Davis in the back with a pitch during Monday’s game against Baltimore.