Shaky Nomo Released by Cubs

The Chicago Cubs released Hideo Nomo after the former National League rookie of the year declined to stay in the minors for two more starts.

Under an agreement with the Cubs, Nomo was to make three starts for triple-A Iowa before the Cubs would either promote him to the majors with an $800,000 base salary plus incentives that could total another $2 million, ask him to stay longer in the minors or release him.

Cub General Manager Ed Lynch watched Nomo’s shaky outing Thursday at Des Moines and after consulting with other team officials determined the former Dodger was not ready for the majors.

Lynch asked Nomo’s agent, Don Nomura, if his client would agree to two more starts at Iowa. Nomura said no and the Cubs released the pitcher.

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Marge Schott, who announced this week that she is selling most of her shares in the Cincinnati Reds, was hospitalized in Cincinnati after complaining of breathing problems blamed on allergies.