Angels Offer Extensions to Coaching Staff

Angel General Manager Bill Stoneman said Wednesday he has offered contract extensions to the entire coaching staff -- Ron Roenicke (third base), Bud Black (pitching) Joe Maddon (bench), Alfredo Griffin (first base), Mickey Hatcher (hitting) and Bobby Ramos (bullpen).

Stoneman also said that outfielder Tim Salmon had arthroscopic surgery to remove damaged cartilage in his left knee but is expected to be ready for spring training. So is third baseman Troy Glaus, who Stoneman said would soon undergo surgery to cut an enlarged nerve in his right foot.

The Angels also released reserve outfielder Julio Ramirez, who hit batted .281 in 29 games.

Bill Shaikin

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The Seattle Mariners decided to decline their one-year option on designated hitter Edgar Martinez, leaving the immediate future unclear for one of the team’s most popular players.

The Mariners had a $10-million option and had to decide by midnight whether to use it. General Manager Pat Gillick said he’s not certain what course Martinez will choose next.

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The Boston Red Sox have hired renowned baseball author and statistical maven Bill James as an advisor to baseball operations, the Hartford Courant reported.... New York Yankee reliever Steve Karsay will have surgery today for a herniated disk in his lower back.... The Atlanta Braves hired Otis Nixon as coordinator of baserunning and bunting. Nixon is 17th in career stolen bases with 620.... Former Phillies manager Terry Francona was hired as bench coach by the Oakland Athletics.