Mon Jan 7 19:59:36 2008

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MLB to institute new security measures

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New York, NY (Sports Network) - In light of the Mitchell Report, Major League Baseball announced Monday it will start to institute new clubhouse security measures for the 2008 season.

Commissioner Bud Selig announced that the increased security, based on the recommendations of former U.S. Senate majority leader George Mitchell, will be used to prevent the illegal use of performance-enhancing substances.

All teams were notified of several changes that will be enforced. Background checks will be performed on all existing clubhouse personnel and newly-hired personnel. Random drug tests will be performed on all clubhouse personnel. All teams will be required to keep a log of all packages sent to clubhouses at major league ballparks. Teams will be required to distribute the league's policy on "Disclosing Information Relating to the Use, Possession or Distribution of Prohibited Substances" to all club employees and to post the policy in the clubhouse. There will not be an overnight notice sent to teams to signal the arrival of personnel to administer drug testing. Instead, all teams must have one designated area for collections in both the home and visiting clubhouses.

"These security and logistical changes are important additional steps in combating the illegal use of performance-enhancing substances," Selig said. "Major League Baseball is pleased to act on the recommendations made by Senator Mitchell as part of its ongoing clubhouse security procedures. Major League Baseball will soon be announcing additional changes based on the recommendations made by Senator Mitchell."