by Seattle Times News Services , The Seattle Times

The Angels, a Mariners foe in the American League West, appear reluctant to guarantee more than seven years in a contract for Teixeira, said a source familiar with the club's thinking. They appear more likely to pursue Sabathia, with an offer in the range of Johan Santana's six-year, $137.5 million contract with the New York Mets.

Teixeira remains the Angels' top priority the club would sign him but does not want to miss out on Sabathia while waiting to see whether Teixeira's asking price falls.

Mitchell, one year later

George Mitchell says he wouldn't change a word of his report on his investigation of drugs in Baseball.

"The impression I get is that it's had a significant impact of reducing usage, although that still remains very difficult to measure with any complete precision," the former Senate Majority Leader said Tuesday in his midtown Manhattan office.

Mitchell's 409-page report implicated seven MVPs and 31 All-Stars.

"I think it's gone a long way toward turning the page on this issue and permitting Baseball to move forward," Mitchell said.

All 20 of Mitchell's recommendations were adopted.

On Monday night, two New York newspapers reported that Roger Clemens' former trainer gave samples of his DNA to federal investigators trying to ascertain whether the star pitcher committed perjury before Congress. Brian McNamee's lawyers have said the items, when tested, would link Clemens to the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

Notes

? Free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal, 31, spent much of Tuesday in the East Bay as the Oakland A's entertained him, his wife and his agent, Foxsports.com reported.

? The Philadelphia Phillies continue to talk with free-agent left-hander Jamie Moyer about a new contract, but the parties have yet to reach an agreement.

? The Boston Red Sox have expressed an interest in bringing back captain Jason Varitek but have not made a contract offer, the catcher's agent said Tuesday.

? The Florida Marlins' new ballpark won't open until the 2012 season, a one-year delay because a recent court challenge slowed the start of construction.

? Phillies second baseman Chase Utley has had arthroscopic hip surgery and is expected to need four to six months to recover.

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