Tigers’ Gonzalez Puts Contract Talks on Hold

Juan Gonzalez says contract talks with the Detroit Tigers are on hold, for now. The two-time American League most valuable player just wants to concentrate on lifting himself and the Tigers from slumps.

“I don’t want to talk about any contract,” Gonzalez said Monday before the Tigers’ 4-1 loss to the Kansas City Royals. “I want to concentrate on baseball.”

A day earlier, after a 4-0 loss at Minnesota, Gonzalez had given the impression that he wouldn’t negotiate again until the end of the season. He has softened his stance considerably on that point.

“I don’t know when,” he said. “Maybe before the All-Star game, maybe after the All-Star game. Maybe after the season. Right now, everything is quiet.”

*

Catcher Eddie Perez of the Atlanta Braves had surgery to repair a torn right rotator cuff and is expected to be sidelined until next season. . . . Charlie Monfort, co-owner of the Colorado Rockies, pleaded guilty in Greeley, Colo., to a reduced drunken-driving charge and was sentenced to 18 months probation. . . . Texas Ranger coach Ed Napoleon announced his retirement to spend more time with his family. Napoleon, 62, was in his sixth season with the Rangers, serving as first-base and outfield coach. . . . The Chicago White Sox optioned right-hander Kip Wells to triple-A Charlotte and promoted right-handed starter Kevin Beirne.