Gonzalez Says He’s Happy With Tigers

Juan Gonzalez denies saying he plans to leave the Detroit Tigers after this season.

ESPN’s Web site reported Thursday that Gonzalez “is telling every opposing player he talks with that he has no intention of signing a long-term contract with the Tigers.”

“I didn’t say anything. I’m happy here,” Gonzalez said before Friday’s game against the Chicago White Sox. “I never say nothing about I don’t like Detroit, or the trade or the contract. I was quiet. I don’t know who is talking about that Juan doesn’t like Detroit.”

In a statement released by the Tigers, Gonzalez was quoted as saying: “Though we are off to a disappointing start on the field, I can honestly say that I am happier now than I have ever been in my career. Our policy all along has been to not discuss anything related to negotiations concerning a long-term contract. I will, however, say that in no way have I ruled out the distinct possibility of extending my contract and finishing my career with the Tiger organization.”

Tiger General Manager Randy Smith said Friday he’s not putting much stock in the report until he hears it from Gonzalez or his agents.

“My understanding is that Juan has told people today that that report was not correct,” Smith said. “The only thing I’ll say is that Juan said during spring training that he’s the happiest he’s been in his career. We’re glad he’s here. We have a good relationship, and good relationships have a way of lasting.”

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Shortstop Miguel Tejada, part of the Oakland Athletics’ corps of rising young stars, signed an $11-million, four-year contract with the team.

Tejada, 23, set an Oakland team record last season for runs batted in by a shortstop with 84 and also had 21 home runs.

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Curt Schilling will make his final rehab start with the triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons on Tuesday and is scheduled to rejoin the Philadelphia Phillies at the end of the month.

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Jamie Moyer, the Seattle Mariners’ top starting pitcher, was put on the 15-day disabled list because of a strained muscle in the back of his left shoulder. Moyer, a left-hander, is expected to be out of the Mariners’ rotation for at least three weeks. . . . Brian Hunter was claimed on waivers by the Philadelphia Phillies from the Atlanta Braves. The 32-year old outfielder-first baseman hit .249 for the Braves last year with six home runs, and 30 RBIs. . . . The Arizona Diamondbacks designated right-handed reliever Darren Holmes for assignment, a move he declined, clearing the way for releasing him in 10 days.

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The Houston Astros announced that they’ve reduced the official seating capacity of Enron Field, their new downtown ballpark, to 40,950, from an initial figure of 42,000. The Astros attributed the reduction to seats removed because they had obstructed views of the field.