Mcclatchy Delivers In Cash

Kevin McClatchy apparently ended the Pittsburgh Pirates’ 14-month search for a new buyer, making a $1 million down payment after completing a purchase agreement to keep the team from moving.

McClatchy, who at 32 would be the youngest owner ever in the majors, will spend the next three weeks lining up additional partners before a signed deal is submitted to baseball owners for approval.

The Pirates’ 10 owners voted unanimously to approve the purchase agreement. McClatchy, a California newspaper heir, immediately posted a $1 million deposit, with an additional $2 million due once the deal goes to baseball’s ownership committee. The $3 million would be forfeited if McClatchy is not approved by Feb. 1. Ten of 14 N.L. owners must approve the purchase along with eight of 14 A.L. owners.

The Houston Astros traded left-handed pitcher Pedro Martinez, a former Spokane Indian, to the San Diego Padres for infielder Ray Holbert.

Outfielder Raul Mondesi and catcher Carlos Hernandez of the Los Angeles Dodgers underwent arthroscopic surgeries, each to have damage repaired in his right knee. Both operations were pronounced successful.

The Wisconsin state Assembly gave final legislative approval to a plan to save major-league baseball in Wisconsin by raising taxes to help build the Milwaukee Brewers a $250 million ballpark.