Wells May Pay for Book

David Wells could be punished by the New York Yankees for writing an autobiography that General Manager Brian Cashman said “tarnishes the Yankees’ image.”

While Wells tried to put the controversy surrounding his upcoming book to rest by addressing the team Sunday in Tampa, Fla., it’s clear the issue won’t be resolved any time soon.

“I can’t rule out the possibility that we will pursue some sort of disciplinary action,” Cashman said. “I’m going to get a copy of the book, read it myself and then determine what course of action, if any, to take.”

If the Yankees decide to punish Wells, Cashman said the pitcher would have representation to counter any charges the team might make.

Wells had apologized to Cashman on Saturday and didn’t know whether there would be any discipline.

“That’s up to them,” Wells said. “I have no control over what they do. I hope they don’t do anything.”

In galleys of the autobiography, Wells claims he was “half drunk” when he pitched a perfect game in 1998, takes digs at teammates Roger Clemens and Mike Mussina and says drugs are rampant in baseball.

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Mike Hampton pitched two scoreless innings in his debut with the Atlanta Braves in an exhibition game against the Montreal Expos at Kissimmee, Fla.

Hampton, acquired from Colorado in a three-way trade during the off-season, worked out of trouble in each inning. He gave up four hits and walked a batter.

“Results are all right, but I’m still a little inconsistent with my arm slot on my sinker,” he said after throwing 33 pitches.

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The Chicago Cubs agreed to contract terms with right-hander Bobby Brownlie, their first-round pick in last year’s amateur draft. He could have returned for his senior year at Rutgers. The Cubs had until May 26 to sign him or lose his draft rights.