A’s extend Geren, Ellis

Manager Bob Geren and second baseman Mark Ellis are staying with the Oakland Athletics for at least the near future.

The A’s picked up contract options for Geren and Ellis on Monday, locking up Geren through 2009 and Ellis for the 2008 season. Geren, who had extensive managerial experience in the minors and overseas and is a longtime friend of general manager Billy Beane, signed a two-year contract for his first managerial job last November.

Ellis has been one of Oakland’s most reliable players in a disappointing, injury-filled season.

Offerman makes plea

Former major league All-Star Jose Offerman pleaded not guilty in Bridgeport, Conn., to charges that he attacked a pitcher and catcher with his bat during a minor league game.

Offerman is scheduled back in Bridgeport Superior Court on Oct. 17.

White to retire

Rondell White plans to retire after finishing this season with Minnesota.

The Twins’ popular outfielder and designated hitter said there is a “99 percent chance” he will hang up his spikes for good after this week.

“I missed four months this year. My body hurts,” the 35-year-old said. “There’s a good chance this is it.”

Attendance at a high

Major League Baseball set a record for total attendance and is on track to break its mark for average attendance.

With one week left in the season, teams have drawn 76,215,082 fans, topping last year’s 76,042,787.

The average of 32,710 is up 4 percent from last year’s final average of 31,423.

Clearing the bases

Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina and pitcher Mark Mulder had season-ending surgery. Molina for torn cartilage in his right knee. Mulder had arthroscopic surgery on his previously repaired rotator cuff. … Nationals right-hander Shawn Hill was scratched from his final start and will have surgery on his right arm. … … Minnesota minor leaguer Eli Tintor was suspended for 50 games following a positive test for a drug abuse. … Pitching coach Rick Kranitz has decided to part ways with the Marlins.