Raines Is Battling Lupus, Will Be Out Rest of Season

Oakland Athletic outfielder Tim Raines, one of baseball’s top base stealers and leadoff batters over a 20-year career, is suffering from Lupus and will be sidelined the rest of the season.

Raines, 39, who has been on the disabled list since July 19 because of swelling in his kidneys, discussed his condition with his doctor at his side during an informal clubhouse news conference Friday.

Raines, a member of the World Series champion New York Yankees last year, began the news conference with a declaration that he had no intention of quitting baseball. Dr. Elliott Schwartz said if the disease remains in remission, Raines could be ready for spring training next year.

There is no known cure for Lupus, but its symptoms can be treated.

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Jose Canseco’s recovery from back surgery is going so well, he thinks he could return to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays sooner than expected to resume his quest for 500 home runs.

Canseco, with 428 homers, had surgery for a herniated disk July 11. Doctors said at the time that the earliest they expected him to be able to play again was Sept. 1.

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Cincinnati Red pitcher Steve Avery had surgery to repair his damaged shoulder. Avery can begin throwing again in six weeks. . . . Eddie Murray will get his first taste of managing with the Scottsdale Scorpions in the Arizona Fall League. . . . New York Yankee outfielder Darryl Strawberry continued his comeback with two singles for triple-A Columbus in an 11-4 loss to Indianapolis.