MLB notes: Yankees concerned about latest A-Rod drug allegations

Tampa, Fla. • Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner says he's concerned about the latest drug allegations swirling around third baseman Alex Rodriguez, but that the matter is being looked at by Major League Baseball.

The Miami New Times reported late last month that the three-time AL MVP bought human growth hormone and other performance-enhancing substances in recent years from Biogenesis of America LLC, a now-closed clinic in Coral Cables, near Rodriguez's offseason home.

Speaking on Friday at the Yankees' minor league complex, Steinbrenner said the situation is "a concern, but it's out of our hands."

"We will cooperate with MLB in any way we can, any way we're asked to," he said. "But other than that, there's not much to say. I don't know any more than you do."

Rodriguez has denied the allegations. He admitted four years ago that he used PEDs from 2001-03.

The Yankees signed one-time Boston Red Sox third baseman Kevin Youkilis to fill in for Rodriguez, who is sidelined for at least the first half of the season after hip surgery Jan. 16.

"I've always liked Kevin," Steinbrenner said. "He always seemed like a good leader, a hard worker and a very enthusiastic — loves the game — kind of guy. And that's the kind of guy we want."

Steinbrenner addressed a number of other topics, including the contract status of second baseman Robinson Cano, a potential free agent after the upcoming season.

"There's been a conversation or two," Steinbrenner said. "We'll get into that, and we'll talk about that at a later date. But he's obviously been a great Yankee, and hope he's here his entire career."

The Yankees are still looking to reduce the 2014 payroll to the $189 million luxury tax threshold.

Red Sox prospect accidentally shoots himself in the leg

Boston Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington says outfield prospect Bryce Brentz accidentally shot himself in the leg last month, but could recover in time to play in spring training.

Cherington said Saturday that Brentz was cleaning a gun went it went off. The bullet passed through Brentz's left leg.

Cherington said Brentz wasn't doing anything illegal. The GM said the team had talked to the 24-year-old about the accident.

Brentz was a first-round draft pick by the Red Sox in 2010. He hit a combined .290 with 17 home runs and 76 RBIs last season in Double-A and Triple-A. —

MLB key dates

Feb. 12-21 • Salary arbitration hearings, Phoenix

March 2-19 • World Baseball Classic

March 31 • Opening day, Texas at Houston. Active rosters reduced to 25 players

June 6 • Amateur draft

July 16 • All-Star Game, Citi Field, New York

Oct. 23 • World Series begins