MLB to revamp procedures on contributions to politicians

Major League Baseball will put in place new procedures for vetting political contributions after giving $5,000 to Cindy Hyde-smith, a Republican senator from Mississippi, and then asking for the money back following her controversial remarks.

MLB’S political action committee donated $472,500 from the start of 2017 through this Oct. 17, according to Federal Election Commission records. Among the distributions were two $2,500 contributions to Hydesmith’s Senate campaign on June 26 and Sept. 24 this year.

A video showed Hyde-smith praising a supporter this month by saying: “If he invited me to a public hanging, I’d be on the front row.” Opponents characterized the comment as insensitive given Mississippi’s history of racially motivated lynching.

Pirates: Pitcher Chris Archer underwent surgery to repair a hernia but should be ready in time for spring training.

Players Choice Awards: Free agent outfielder Curtis Granderson became the first three-time winner of the Marvin

Miller Man of the Year, part of the players’ association’s Players Choice Awards. The 37-year-old Granderson, the winner in 2009 and 2016, split last season between Toronto and Milwaukee. The award is given annually to a player for on-field performance and contributions to the community that inspire others. Boston designated hitter J.D. Martinez was voted Player of the Year.