TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- The Cincinnati Reds signed a letter of intent to
buy the Florida State League's Sarasota franchise from the Boston Red Sox.

Cincinnati operated their Florida State League team last year under a
player development contract with the Red Sox.

"This is a reflection of our commitment to the city and county of
Sarasota," new Reds owner Bob Castellini said Saturday. "We want to
become an integral part of the fabric of the community and identify
ourselves as part of this wonderful city."

The deal needs approval from Major League Baseball, the National
Association of Professional Baseball Leagues and the Florida State League.

March 4, 2006