Mitchell issues steroid warning to owners

PHOENIX — Baseball owners heard a clear warning from former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell on Thursday.

Mitchell, who is investigating steroid use in the sport, said the chances of government involvement will “significantly increase” if they don't cooperate with him.

Speaking to owners on the final day of baseball's quarterly meetings, Mitchell said he intends to interview active players and raised the possibility that Congress or other government authorities could compel testimony.

“I believe it will be in your best interests, and the best interests of baseball, if I can report that I have received full cooperation from your organizations, and from others, in conducting this investigation,” Mitchell said in remarks that were released to reporters.

Mitchell cited last week's Hall of Fame vote to underscore the importance of his investigation. Mark McGwire was picked on 23.5 percent of ballots — far below the necessary 75 percent needed for induction. The vote was viewed by many as the first referendum on how history will judge an age when bulked-up players came under suspicion of using performance-enhancing drugs. Baseball didn't ban steroids until after the 2002 season.