BASEBALL NOTES

Looking for a backup catcher because their contract talks with Sandy Alomar stalled, the Cleveland Indians acquired Eddie Taubensee from the Cincinnati Reds for pitchers Jim Brower and Robert Pugmire. . . . The Pittsburgh Pirates reportedly will sign three-time all-star catcher Jason Kendall to a multiyear contract expected to be worth about $60 million. Meanwhile, they declined to exercise their $3.85-million contract option on right-hander Francisco Cordova for next season. . . . After contemplating retirement late last season, Paul O’Neill instead will play one final season after signing a $6.5-million contract with the New York Yankees. . . . The Chicago Cubs agreed to a two-year contract with free-agent pitcher Julian Tavarez. . . . The Boston Red Sox acquired infielder Chris Stynes from the Cincinnati Reds for infielder Donnie Sadler and outfield prospect Michael Coleman. . . . The Toronto Blue Jays and Texas Rangers will open the 2001 season in Puerto Rico, the third consecutive year the season has started outside the U.S. or Canada.