Brewers’ Future In Doubt

Senators preparing for a final vote today on a plan to raise taxes to pay for a $250 million Milwaukee Brewers stadium were being besieged by last-minute pressure Wednesday from lobbyists and constituents.

Following postponement of a planned Senate vote Tuesday, an exasperated Gov. Tommy G. Thompson said he was still three votes short of the 17 needed for approval in the 32-member Senate. And according to a count from Senate Majority Leader Michael Ellis, R-Neenah, there was little movement Wednesday.

Passing up a chance to test the free-agent market after an outstanding season, San Diego Padres center fielder Steve Finley agreed to a new two-year, $5.9 million contract.

The Baltimore Orioles have received permission to interview San Diego general manager Randy Smith as a candidate to replace Roland Hemond.

Right-hander Mark Leiter, who was 10-12 for San Francisco this season, signed a one-year contract with the Giants.

Terms were not disclosed, but Leiter apparently will receive $1.5 million plus a $500,000 incentives package.

Houston Astros outfielder Brian Hunter was diagnosed with a broken left shoulder blade after colliding with rightfielder Derrick May last weekend.