Braves pitcher Mike Hampton will have major elbow surgery next Wednesday and will miss the entire 2006 season. Hampton endured an injury-plagued season that included four stints on the DL.
Sean Casey was examined Monday by a spine specialist and cleared to participate in light physical conditioning, but there's no timetable for his return to the lineup.
Bobby Crosby took some grounders in Fenway Park Saturday, taking another step toward returning to the A's lineup. Crosby later took part in agility drills.
Rafael Palmeiro is expected to rejoin the Orioles for their final homestand, although he will see limited action after being sidelined at home with knee and ankle injuries.
Billy Wagner will be the offseason's biggest free agent closer and the Mets would like to slide Braden Looper to the set up role and grab the Phillies' closer.
Roger Clemens former battery mate, Jorge Posada, believes that the future Hall of Famer is ready to retire from the game that he has dominated for so long. He has a 1.77 ERA this season.