Deadline Set for Marlins’ Stadium Plan

Major League Baseball told the city of Miami and Miami-Dade County that they have until June 9 to revise financing plans for a new ballpark for the Florida Marlins now that the state Legislature has refused to chip in.

The letter from Bob DuPuy, MLB chief operating officer, to local government leaders also said baseball won’t issue a letter of credit to cover cost overruns on the project, and reiterated that the Marlins can’t stay in the open-air Dolphins Stadium for the team to have long-term success in South Florida.

The letter doesn’t say what the consequences are for missing the deadline, but team officials met in Las Vegas with Mayor Oscar Goodman five months ago, and Goodman is trying to lure a franchise to his city.

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The Boston Red Sox were expected to activate left-hander David Wells from the disabled list to start today against the Oakland Athletics, barring any setbacks this morning. Wells has been out since April 26 because of a sprained right foot.

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Pittsburgh Pirate left-hander Oliver Perez, sidelined since May 6 because of shoulder stiffness, is scheduled to start Saturday night against Colorado.

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Philadelphia first baseman Jim Thome, on the disabled list since May 3 because of a strained lower back, will head to Florida for two days of extended spring training before a possible activation Friday.

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New York Yankee designated hitter Ruben Sierra left an extended spring training game after feeling discomfort in his left leg. Sierra is taking part in a rehabilitation program for a partially torn arm muscle.... The Atlanta Braves put pitcher John Thomson on the 15-day disabled list because of an injured finger and purchased the contract of reliever Matt Childers from triple-A Richmond.... Utility infielder Enrique Wilson, released by Baltimore, signed with the Chicago Cubs.