José Lima, the controversial pitcher of the Houston Astros, announced he will play here starting 15 December. Lima who had two great years in 1998 (16 wins) and 1999 (20 wins) before collapsing in 2000 (7 wins), will play for the Escogido Lions. He said he will play in the second half of the season and will be available to play in the Caribbean Series, if his team wins the Dominican championship. Rafael Furcal, rookie of the year for the National League, played short stop for the Escogido in the Sunday game against the Licey Tigers. Pedro Martínez, American League Cy Young award winner, pitched the first ball in that game. He said his contract with the Boston Red Sox does not allow him to play in the Dominican league. (20 November 2000)
