[mets2k]

Sweeney says he never had amphetamines

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Mark Sweeney insists he never had any amphetamines in his locker for San Francisco teammate Barry Bonds to take.

Sweeney said Friday he was shocked to learn that Bonds apparently mentioned his name in connection with the slugger's failed amphetamines test last summer. The New York Daily News reported Thursday that Bonds failed the test and initially attributed it to a substance he took from Sweeney's locker.

"There was nothing I had for him to take or for me to give to him," Sweeney told The Associated Press in a phone interview.

Sweeney moved forward after being told by Gene Orza, the union's chief operating officer, that his name had come up with a failed test for the stimulants. He wasn't informed of the player's name.

"That was kind of a shock," Sweeney said. "I heard my name was mentioned. I didn't know who mentioned it. I didn't know how or why. I was angered and hurt a little bit that however it came out someone didn't know the facts. That happens in all walks of life. ... It's more frustrating for my family. That's who I'm frustrated for. I've learned to deal with certain situations."

Sweeney said he was tested several times for amphetamines last season and has never failed any drug tests.

The 37-year-old Sweeney, heading into his second season with San Francisco and 13th year in the majors, batted .251 with five home runs and 37 RBIs last season.

He plans to discuss everything with Bonds at some point, probably during spring training. Sweeney said they chatted briefly about a week ago at a golf tournament at Torrey Pines.