Gary Matthews Jr. denies hormone use

TEMPE, Ariz., March 14 (UPI) -- Los Angeles Angels outfielder Gary Matthews, Jr., Wednesday denied using human growth hormone.

Matthews was mentioned in a recent investigation that alleged the outfielder was among several people who were sent HGH ion 2004 from a pharmacy that was involved in a steroids-related investigation.

"I have never taken HGH -- during the 2004 season or any other time," Matthews said. "Nobody accused me of doing so and no law enforcement authority has said I am a target of any investigation for doing so."

Matthews had remained quiet on the issue since the allegations surfaced but was facing pressure from team officials to talk about the issue. Matthews, a career-.263 hitter, during the off-season signed a five-year, $50 million contract with the Angels after hitting .313 with 19 home runs last season.

He said he waited about two weeks to talk about the investigation because "I wanted to make absolutely sure of my ground" as to whether he was going to be accused of "anything in regard to HGH."

HGH is listed among substances whose use is banned by Major League Baseball.