MLB looks into human growth hormones

ALBANY, N.Y., Sept. 13 (UPI) -- Despite having no test for human growth hormone, Major League Baseball is convinced that it has the strongest drug-testing program in U.S. sports.

"Human growth hormone is a problem for all sports," said Rob Manfred, MLB's chief labor lawyer. "I know the other (sports) leagues are concerned about it, too."

The commissioner's office has a meeting scheduled with three players who were identified by the Albany, N.Y., prosecutor's office as being involved in a Florida pharmaceutical company that provides performance-enhancing drugs, USA Today reported Thursday.

The three players are Jay Gibbons of the Baltimore Orioles, Rick Ankiel of the St. Louis Cardinals and Troy Glaus of the Toronto Blue Jays.

Gary Matthews Jr. of the Los Angeles Angels, who was identified by SI.com as receiving HGH several years ago, may also be summoned, said Manfred.

MLB has is cooperating with the Albany district attorney's office in the investigation to seek additional names.

"We're doing everything we can," says Manfred. "We're being very proactive. We made numerous contacts, and the DA (P. David Soares) understands our willingness to be cooperative."