More Minor Leaguers Suspended

Former New York Met pitcher Grant Roberts was among nine players suspended for 15 games Friday for violating baseball’s minor league steroids policy, raising the total to 47.

Roberts was removed from the Mets’ major-league roster in November, then went to spring training with a minor-league contract. The right-hander pitched in one spring training game, then was released April 14.

Outfielder Adam Seuss, who was released by the Mets and then signed with the Houston Astros, also tested positive.

Three of the players suspended were from the Baltimore Oriole organization: Gary Cates Jr., Rafael Diaz and Richard Salazar.

Also suspended were James Jurries and Ricardo Rodriguez (Atlanta Braves), Eider Torres (Cleveland Indians) and Damien Myers (released by the Detroit Tigers).

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The New York Mets put left-handed pitcher Kaz Ishii on the 15-day disabled list because of a strained muscle in his side.

Ishii, acquired from the Dodgers during spring training, is 0-2 with a 4.82 earned-run average.

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New York Yankee designated hitter Ruben Sierra will be sidelined for at least a month because of a partially torn right biceps. Infielder Andy Phillips was recalled from triple-A Columbus.... Baltimore pitcher Sidney Ponson was granted a special permit to enter Canada for a three-game series against Toronto. He is scheduled to make his scheduled start on Sunday.... San Francisco activated outfielder Moises Alou from the 15-day disabled list.... Oakland agreed to a five-year, $12.75-million contract with shortstop Bobby Crosby.... Jim Thome was held out of Philadelphia’s lineup because of a stiff back and is day to day.... Houston signed left-hander Tom Martin to a minor league contract.... Florida put right-hander Antonio Alfonseca on the 15-day disabled list because of a stress fracture in his elbow. He is expected to be out at least two months.