Ex-pitcher Loaiza pleads not guilty in drug case

Former All-Star pitcher Esteban Loaiza, who earned more than $43 million in 14 seasons, denied allegations Wednesday that he is a cocaine dealer.

The former Major League Baseball player appeared in San Diego County Superior Court in Chula Vista, California.

Prosecutors charged Loaiza, 46, with possession and transportation for sale of more than 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of cocaine, a cocaine base or heroin, and using a false compartment to smuggle drugs.

John 'Tito' Francona dies at 84

Former major leaguer John "Tito" Francona, the father of Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona, has died. He was 84.

The Indians said the elder Francona died unexpectedly at his home in New Brighton, Pennsylvania on Tuesday night. Francona played in the majors for 15 seasons, including six with the Indians. He was an AllStar in 1961.

Jets promote Bates to offensive coordinator

The New York Jets promoted quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates to offensive coordinator Wednesday.

Bates replaces John Morton, who was fired last month after just one season as New York's offensive coordinator. Bates also will continue his duties as quarterbacks coach. Bates takes over an offense that ranked 28th overall and struggled with consistency — resulting in Morton’s dismissal after just one season.

Chiefs LB Johnson to become free agent

Linebacker Derrick Johnson's tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs is coming to an end. The franchise's career tackles leader and a four-time Pro Bowl selection, Johnson will become a free agent when his contract expires at the start of the new league year March 14. He intends to keep playing, it just won't be in the familiar red, yellow and white of the Chiefs.