BASEBALL
Torrealba draws 66-game suspension in Venezuela
CARACAS, Venezuela | Texas Rangers catcher Yorvit Torrealba has been suspended from Venezuela’s professional baseball league for 66 games for striking an umpire.
Torrealba was arguing with the home-plate umpire Friday after striking out. He angrily put a hand on the umpire’s mask and shoved him. He was then ejected. Torrealba plays for the Caracas Lions when not playing in the majors.
c The Chicago Cubs agreed to one-year contracts with right-handers Andy Sonnanstine and Manny Corpas. Sonnanstine, 28, was 28-31 with a 5.26 ERA in five seasons with Tampa Bay. Corpas, 29 spent five seasons with Colorado. He did not pitch in the majors last year after undergoing elbow ligament-replacement surgery in September 2010.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
For Griffin, Heisman Trophy means security personnel
SAN ANTONIO | Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III is getting help in dealing with his new fame.
The Baylor quarterback confirmed Monday that he’s sometimes shadowed by security since being honored earlier this month as the nation’s best player.
Griffin said he understands that “people are going to want a piece of you when you’re doing great things.” He added it was a good problem to have and downplayed the new part of his celebrity.
Baylor spokesman Heath Nielsen later clarified that the school isn’t paying for private bodyguards. He said an athletic department employee follows Griffin in public to minimize demands for autographs and pictures.
PRO BASKETBALL
Rockets sign Dalembert for front-court depth
HOUSTON | The Houston Rockets signed free agent center Samuel Dalembert. Houston opened its season at Orlando on Monday night. Dalembert averaged 8.1 points and 8.2 rebounds for Sacramento last season.
HOCKEY
Wild’s Koivu returns to lineup following leg injury
ST. PAUL, Minn. | Minnesota Wild center Mikko Koivu returned Monday against the Colorado Avalanche after missing the past four games with a leg injury. Minnesota (20-11-5) hasn’t won since Koivu, its leading scorer, was injured against Chicago on Dec. 14.
From wire dispatches and staff reports
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