Umpire Al Clark Ousted From Job

Al Clark, a major league umpire since 1977, was terminated by the commissioner’s office this week for improperly using plane tickets in violation of his union’s contract, baseball officials said.

Sandy Alderson, executive vice president of baseball operations in the commissioner’s office, confirmed Clark’s termination but would not get into details.

News of the Clark’s departure was first reported Friday by the New York Post, which said Clark was under investigation for issues related to memorabilia.

However, three baseball officials familiar with Clark’s departure, speaking on condition they not be identified, said the termination was due to the improper use of plane tickets.

The Cincinnati Reds put Deion Sanders on unconditional release waivers, at least temporarily ending an attempt to revive his baseball career. . . . Trying to solve their problem at shortstop, the San Diego Padres have released Chris Gomez to make room for Damian Jackson, who had been out with a broken right thumb. . . . Injured Boston Red Sox shortstop Nomar Garciaparra threw a baseball for the first time since undergoing surgery on his right wrist. Red Sox officials have said Garciaparra may return within a few weeks after the all-star break, but he declined to set a timetable. . . . The Red Sox added former outfielder Dwight Evans as a player development consultant to work with the organization’s minor leaguers. . . . The Cleveland Indians optioned struggling right-hander Jaret Wright to triple-A Buffalo, a day after his third consecutive bad outing. . . . Cal State Fullerton right-hander Kirk Saarloos, Houston’s third-round pick in this month’s baseball draft, agreed to terms on a contract with the Astros. . . . New York Yankee Manager Joe Torre, who will be the American League manager in next month’s All-Star game, said Cal Ripken will be on the team whether or not he is voted onto the squad.