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Byrd arrives at Indians camp after 'stressful' offseason

By: Associated Press - | Friday, February 15, 2008 11:30 PM PST ∞

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. -- Paul Byrd walked into the Cleveland Indians clubhouse Friday after a "stressful" offseason in which he met with baseball officials regarding his use of human growth hormone.

He exchanged hugs with teammates and clubhouse workers and team officials. The 37-year-old right-hander finally was around baseball again.

"I'm excited to get going," he said. "It's great to see the guys again and get on the mound."

The quiet morning at Chain of Lakes Park was much different from the scene Byrd faced before Game 7 of last season's American League championship series in Boston.

Earlier that day, it was reported he had purchased human growth hormone from 2002-05. About two hours before the game, Byrd addressed a media throng outside the Indians clubhouse at Fenway Park. He said he took HGH for a medical condition and under a doctor's supervision.

It's uncertain whether he will face discipline from the commissioner. His name was included in the Mitchell Report on performance-enhancing drugs in baseball.

"It was hard on my family," he said. "It was a very stressful situation."

Byrd said he met with baseball officials Dec. 17 in New York but didn't elaborate.

"At this point, I'm still awaiting their decision in regards to the past and in regards to the future," he said. "That is really all I can say."

Byrd is trying to be optimistic that he will avoid punishment.

"I'm hoping for that, but you hate to count on anything until it happens," he said.

Last season, Byrd went 15-8 with a 4.59 ERA in 31 starts, his most wins since 2002 with the Royals. Byrd won both his starts in the playoffs, including a victory in Game 4 of the division series as the Indians eliminated the Yankees. He also defeated the Red Sox in Game 4 of the ALCS.

The Indians picked up Byrd's $7.5 million option for 2008 in November.