House committee probe list shrinks

Andy Pettitte, Chuck Knoblauch and steroids dealer Kirk Radomski have been dropped from the witness list at Wednesday’s House committee hearing about Roger Clemens.

The decision leaves Clemens and his former personal trainer, Brian McNamee, to testify at the hearing, along with a new witness added Monday night: a member of the staff that worked with former Senate majority leader George Mitchell to produce December’s report on drugs in baseball.

McNamee said in the Mitchell Report that he injected Clemens with steroids and human growth hormones at least 16 times in 1998, 2000 and 2001. Clemens’ denials of those allegations drew the attention of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

•Former pitcher John Rocker told an Atlanta radio station that commissioner Bud Selig knew he failed a drug test in 2000 and that doctors for the league and union advised him and several other Texas Rangers teammates on how to safely use steroids.

Gene Orza, the chief operating officer of the players’ association, declined comment.

Greene, Pads finalize deal

Shortstop Khalil Greene and the San Diego Padres have finalized an $11 million, two-year contract, allowing the sides to avoid an arbitration hearing.

Greene will make $4.5 million this season and $6.5 million in 2009. Greene, who played in a career-best 153 games in 2007 after missing time in previous seasons due to injuries, can earn up to $500,000 more in 2009 based on 2008 plate appearances. Greene was the Padres’ 2007 MVP after hitting .254 and setting career highs with 27 homers, 44 doubles and 97 RBIs.

Clearing the bases

Third baseman Garrett Atkins and the Colorado Rockies agreed to a one-year contract worth $4,387,500. … First baseman Mike Sweeney agreed to a minor league contract with the Oakland Athletics. … Craig Biggio, who retired after the 2007 season, agreed to a three-year personal services contract with the Houston Astros. … Veteran Steve Trachsel agreed to a minor league contract with the Baltimore Orioles to add experience to their starting rotation. … First baseman Doug Mientkiewicz agreed to a minor league contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates.