Flu prompts PCL postponement

With seven players receiving treatment for the flu, the Triple-A Portland Beavers received permission from the Pacific Coast League to postpone Friday's game at Salt Lake as a precautionary move.

In a statement, the league said the seven Beavers were not suffering from so-called swine flu, the quick-spreading illness that caused the Mexican League to suspend activity for nearly a week in late April.

According to the PCL, the players have the influenza-A virus.

"Player illnesses are being treated and none of the players have needed hospitalization," the statement said. "Medical personnel have expressed hope that most of the team will be available for (Saturday) night's scheduled game in Salt Lake City."

A makeup date for Friday's game was not announced.

"The Pacific Coast League endorses the actions taken and commends the Portland Beavers and their Major League affiliate, the San Diego Padres, for their cautious approach," the league said.

The Mexican League shut down all games for several days in April at the urging of the government. Mexican teams had played several days in empty ballparks after fans were prohibited from gathering while the flu outbreak progressed.