Si Update

The Mitchell Probe
SCORECARD, SEPT. 4, 2006

GEORGE MITCHELL 'S investigation into baseball's steroid problem has dragged on for nearly a year, and last week the former senator offered a clue as to why his progress has been slower than expected: He's not getting much help. Mitchell told owners that many clubs have impeded his investigators by refusing to turn over documents. He also warned that if teams didn't cooperate, they might find the government knocking on their doors. "Unlike the Congress ... I cannot compel cooperation," Mitchell said. "I believe that a report that is not credible and thorough will significantly increase the possibility of action by others."

Many teams, citing privacy issues, have been reluctant to turn over players' medical records. The players' union hasn't helped matters; it has told its members to consult its lawyers if contacted by Mitchell . Union lawyers could be busy. Mitchell said that he'll soon begin interviewing active players—such as, perhaps, Mets pitcher Guillermo Mota (above), who in November received a 50-game steroid ban.

Commissioner Bud Selig scolded owners for not aiding the probe. But Selig wouldn't specify a deadline for the completion of Mitchell 's report. "I've always believed it's better to get things done right than to get them done fast," he said. But unless Mitchell gets assistance, neither will happen.