Speed trap  —  Bonds failed amphetamine test, blamed teammate  —  Barry Bonds, already under investigation for lying under oath about his steroid use, failed a test under Major League Baseball's amphetamine policy last season and then initially blamed it on a teammate, the Daily News has learned.

New Blue Jay Thomson rips Lo Duca's catching  —  TORONTO — John Thomson was surprisingly candid Wednesday about one of the reasons he chose the Toronto Blue Jays over the Mets: He didn't want to pitch to New York catcher Paul Lo Duca.  —  Thomson agreed to a $500,000 …

Around the Horn: Corner Infielders  —  Slugger moved back to original position of third base in 2006 … MIAMI — In his comparatively short career, Miguel Cabrera has already established himself as one of the premier hitters in the game.  But can the Marlins' three-time All-Star emerge as an all-around third baseman?

Pedro not rushing his return  —  Mets' ace eager to pitch, but will not rush his comeback  —  PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Pedro Martinez was all smiles Wednesday afternoon as he walked through the Minor League clubhouse at the Mets' Tradition Field complex — and with good reason.

Mulder to return to Cardinals  —  After weeks of speculation, Mark Mulder has finally decided where he will pitch next season.  —  ESPN's Peter Gammons reported Wednesday that Mulder will return to the St. Louis Cardinals.  The guaranteed deal is for two years and $13 million …

Cubs may still have some moves to make  —  After spending nearly $300 million this off-season, the Cubs still aren't finished.  —  The team is trying to add two outfielders, and a trade of right fielder Jacque Jones remains a possibility.  —  Jones, signed for $9 million over the next two seasons …

Back to the Boogie Down  —  Former South Bronx star Sanchez hopes to make mark with Bombers  —  Humberto Sanchez made his annual appearance at South Bronx High School late last month to provide some of the Phoenix baseball players with perspective and instruction from a professional pitcher.

Murcer Says Brain Tumor Is Malignant  —  Bobby Murcer, a former Yankees outfielder and their longest-serving current announcer, said yesterday that a tumor removed from his brain during surgery on Dec. 28 was malignant.  He did not describe his prognosis.  —  "As we begin a new year …

Governor favors helping build stadium  —  Gov. Charlie Crist on Wednesday cited the euphoria over the University of Florida's national football championship among the reasons the state should reverse course and help pay for a Florida Marlins baseball stadium.  —  "I'm favorably inclined to it," Crist said.