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Sosa seeks six-year contract, Cubs offer four.

October 24, 2000 -- Dominican slugger of the Chicago Cubs, Sammy Sosa had a spectacular 2000 season and is now seeking a long-term, six year contract with the Chicago Cubs.

Sosa, who turns 32 in November, is entering the last year on his contract with the Cubs and will be paid $12 million in 2001. A six-year extension would take him through 2007, after which Sosa said he plans to retire.

"I'm looking for six years, no doubt about that," he said. "With the one more year that I have, that's seven years and I know my body can do it. After that I'm going to go home."

The Cubs although are reluctant to go past four years with Sosa.

Sosa, who might become the highest paid player in baseball, has mentioned that he won't accept a penny less than fellow Latino outfielders Manny Ramirez and Juan Gonzalez, both of whom have inferior numbers.

Cubs President/General Manager Andy MacPhail spoke last week about wanting a resolution before the end of the World Series. That's still his hope, but MacPhail said Thursday that if he hasn't reached a deal by then with Sosa's agent, Adam Katz, he will not break off talks.

"If nothing happens [before] spring training, definitely I won't be a happy guy," Sosa said. "But I want you to understand: We're not enemies anymore. We're friends. I don't want to start anything.

"I always say I want to finish my career in Chicago, but right now I want to make sure I get my contract [settled]. Then I can come here and not worry about anything else. I've been working so hard, and now it's time for me to be happy."

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