MLB Increases Clubhouse Security Per Mitchell Recommendations

MLB announced that based on the recommendations in former Senator George Mitchell's report on the use of performance-enhancing drugs in the sport, the league has enhanced clubhouse security by implementing the following security measures and logistical changes:

• Background checks will be performed on all existing clubhouse personnel and new hires
• Random drug tests will be performed on all clubhouse personnel
• Clubs will be required to maintain a log of all packages sent to clubhouses at Major league ballparks
• Clubs will be required to distribute MLB'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
• The overnight notice to clubs before the arrival of comprehensive drug testing personnel has been eliminated. All clubs will be required to have a single, designated area for testing in both the home and visiting clubhouses (MLB).

CLEAN HOUSE: In N.Y., John Harper writes the new measures "are designed to prevent another [former Mets clubhouse attendant] Kirk Radomski from taking root in a position of easy access to major league ballplayers" (N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 1/8).