Bagwell to Start Season on the DL

Jeff Bagwell acknowledged Saturday what the Houston Astros told their insurance company weeks ago: The star first baseman is too hurt to play.

The multimillion-dollar question now is whether he’ll ever be able to return.

Bagwell said he would start the season on the disabled list and consult with a doctor to see if it would be beneficial to remove bone spurs from his shoulder.

“I may never play again,” he said. “It’s been 15 years with the Astros. I have to do what’s best for me, what’s best for the Astros and best for baseball.”

Bagwell, 37, spent the spring in a contentious battle with the team while he tried to prove he could still play.

The Astros filed an insurance claim in January to recoup about $15.6 million of the $17 million Bagwell is guaranteed this season in the final year of his contract.

*

Barry Bonds was scratched from the San Francisco Giants’ lineup for an exhibition game against the Chicago White Sox because of a strained left elbow.

Giant trainer Stan Conte stressed the move was strictly a precaution for the seven-time National League most valuable player.

“He took a swing in [batting practice] today and felt a twinge in his left elbow,” Conte said. “We’re going to evaluate it as the day goes on.”