Newsmakers

Reported Giants general manager Jerry Reese says he’s unsure whether Osi Umenyiora would take less money to finish his career in New York. Instead, Reese believes the recent comments to Umenyiora may have been “taken out of context.” Reese said he understands the motivation behind Umenyiora’s sentiment: He wants to retire having played for only one team.

Announced Injured Phillies star Ryan Howard is leaving Philadelphia’s spring training camp for a few days to visit the doctor who did the surgery on his torn left Achilles tendon. Phillies manager Charlie Manuel called it “a little setback.” Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said it was a “routine checkup.” • Third basemen Ryan Zimmerman and the Washington Nationals are working to agree on a lucrative new contract that would keep the star with the Nationals beyond the two years remaining on his current deal. The main sticking point was Zimmerman’s desire for a no-trade clause, or at least some assurance that he wouldn’t be dealt by the only team he’s played for in the big leagues.

• Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard said the city that just hosted its first Super Bowl wants to do it again in the near future. Ballard said at the NFL combine, that within a few years, Indianapolis likely will put a bid together. • The Court of Arbitration for Sport will aim for a verdict in April in Mohamed bin Hammam’s appeal to overturn his soccer life ban because of alleged vote bribery. Bin Hammam will challenge FIFA’s ruling to expel him April 18-19 at CAS in Lausanne, Switzerland. The court says “the parties have requested a final decision … as soon as possible.”

Sprained Oakland infielder Scott Sizemore sprained his left knee during fielding drills, the first day of full squad workouts. Sizemore was scheduled to undergo an MRI exam to determine the extent of the injury. The Athletics open the season on March 28 against Seattle in Tokyo, and it was uncertain whether Sizemore would be ready by then.

Delayed Reliever Joel Zumaya’s comeback bid with the Minnesota Twins might be delayed, after he ended a throwing session early because of discomfort in his right elbow. Twins general manager Terry Ryan says Zumaya will have an MRI exam today to determine the severity of the injury. Zumaya declined to speak with reporters after the workout.

Claimed The Columbus Blue Jackets claimed center Darryl Boyce off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 27-year-old Canadian has one goal and one assist in 17 games with the Maple Leafs this season. He’s also played 22 games for the Toronto Marlies in the American Hockey League.