Big League Umps Out of Classic

Although many of the best players are getting ready for the first World Baseball Classic, it appears the top umpires won’t be calling the tournament.

Talks between Major League Baseball and its umpires’ union broke down Wednesday. The commissioner’s office also has been negotiating with the Assn. of Minor League Umpires, and minor league umps will probably officiate the 16-nation tournament, which begins March 3.

“As of today’s date, at this point it does not appear that major league umpires will be working the World Cup,” World Umpires Assn. President John Hirschbeck said.

*

Barry Bonds made one thing clear when he reported to spring training with the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday: If he does play in 2007, he doesn’t want it to be as a designated hitter for a new team. He wants it to be with the Giants.

“San Francisco is my home. That’s the love of my life right there,” Bonds said. “The fans there, the people there, everything about it is just great for me.”

The 41-year-old Bonds enters the season with 708 home runs, seven shy of passing Babe Ruth for second place and 48 shy of breaking Hank Aaron’s record of 755.

*

Bobby Crosby’s right shoulder is bothering him again, and the Oakland Athletics are concerned.

“I started feeling tight about seven days ago,” the shortstop said. “I think I did it lifting weights at home. When I first started throwing, I said, ‘That hurts.’ ”

Crosby has been examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum, an arm specialist who works for the Angels.

“It might just be tendinitis,” Crosby said. “Hopefully, the next time I’ll throw, it will feel perfect.”

*

Chicago Cub right-handers Kerry Wood and Wade Miller threw well in their comebacks from shoulder problems. Miller and Wood played catch, throwing from about 120 feet.

“They’re throwing the ball with pretty good force behind it,” pitching coach Larry Rothschild said. “It’s not so much what they can do today, but can they feel like they can do it again tomorrow?”

*

Toronto center fielder Vernon Wells probably will sit out the first round of the World Baseball Classic because of a leg injury.