SPRING TRAINING ROUNDUP | News and notes

Maddux mum: Greg Maddux won't say if this season will be his last, he just wants to concentrate on the basics and enjoy the game. "It's my free-agent year," the 39-year-old Cubs pitcher said. "Hopefully, we'll get a shot at the postseason. That's always the goal. Go out there and try to throw 200-plus innings and see what happens after that." Maddux is beginning his 20th season in the major leagues, hoping not to avoid a repeat of last season. He went 13-15 with a 4.24 ERA last year -- the first time he failed to win at least 15 games since 1987. His ERA also was the highest since 1987, but he still led the Cubs in innings pitched with 225 and only walked 36.
Reds release overweight pitcher: Josh Hancock was released by the Reds a day into spring training because the right-hander reported to camp overweight. The 27-year-old missed most of last season with a groin injury suffered in spring training. Hancock and the rest of the Reds pitchers and catchers took physicals on Friday. Manager Jerry Narron said Hancock, whose weight is listed at 207 pounds, reported 17 pounds too heavy. General manager Wayne Krivsky went along with Narron's suggestion to release Hancock.
Gordon a closer again: Tom Gordon couldn't pass up the chance to finish his career as a closer. Gordon first had the itch to close games again last season when he was a setup man with the Yankees. Once he became a free agent, the 38-year-old right-hander got that opportunity from the Phillies, who are counting on Gordon to replace All-Star closer Billy Wagner, who signed with the Mets.
Buehrle gets opening day nod: Mark Buehrle's last assignment for the White Sox was a rare one. Called out of the bullpen in the 14th inning of Game 3 of the World Series, he earned the save by getting the final out. His next assignment, revealed Saturday, is more familiar. He'll be the opening day starter April 2 when the White Sox start defense of their championship against Cleveland.
Associated Press