February 8

Even as John Rocker prepares for a Wednesday arbitration hearing, the Braves are determining what trade market there is for the left-handed reliever.

"They are trying to trade him," one GM says. "It's intriguing, because he is so talented and probably won't make $250,000, but it's hard to measure the public reaction."

Another general manager said Tuesday afternoon that, "It's my understanding that a deal for another reliever (has been discussed) and is not too far from being done."

In supporting commissioner Bud Selig's suspension of Rocker, which will last the first 28 days of the season, Braves management cited economic hardships caused by the incident, without stating the specifics of those hardships. The club also opposed Rocker's appeal.

In filing the appeal, the players' association claims baseball doesn't have "just cause" to punish Rocker for making offensive comments against homosexuals, minorities and foreigners, especially those in New York, in a Sports Illustrated article.

Rocker arrived in New York on Tuesday, a day before he is to attend a hearing at the offices of Major League Baseball. Arbitrator Shyam Das will hear testimony on the pitcher's suspension.

When asked by reporters if he had any comment for New Yorkers, Rocker said: "It'll all come out. ... They'll hear about it in due time. Just be patient. ... Can you be patient?"