Bagwell Confirms He May Be Done

Jeff Bagwell acknowledged yesterday what the Houston Astros told their insurance company weeks ago: The star first baseman is too hurt to play. The multimillion-dollar question now is whether he will ever be able to return.

Bagwell said he will start the season on the disabled list and consult with a doctor to see if it would be beneficial to remove bone spurs from his shoulder.

"I may never play again," he said. "It's been 15 years with the Astros. I have to do what's best for me, what's best for the Astros and best for baseball."

Bagwell, 37, perhaps the most popular player in franchise history, spent the spring in a contentious battle with the team while he tried to prove he could still play despite a chronically injured right shoulder.

The Astros filed an insurance claim in January to recoup about $15.6 million of the $17 million Bagwell is guaranteed this season, arguing he is too hurt to play. For now, he is on the 15-day disabled list. He must stay on the injured list all season for the Astros to collect.

Bagwell started several spring games, but left two of those after two innings because of soreness in his shoulder. He hit .219 but never had to make a tough throw.

"I'm going to be honest with myself," Bagwell said. "I'm going to be honest with the Astros. I'm out here in the condition where I can only play once every few days, and that's not what I'm out here to do."

Lance Berkman will move to first base to replace Bagwell, which means more playing time in the outfield for postseason stars Jason Lane and Chris Burke .

Astros Manager Phil Garner said he appreciated all Bagwell has done.

"I can't imagine what the Houston Astros would have been the past 15 years without Jeff Bagwell on this ballclub," Garner said.

-- From News Services