Dodgers Ask Judge To Lift Evidence Restriction

DOVER, Del. (AP) -- The Los Angeles Dodgers are asking a Delaware bankruptcy judge for permission to gather evidence on how Major League Baseball has dealt with other teams as lawyers prepare for a court showdown that will determine the Dodgers' fate.

 The judge has scheduled a hearing starting Oct. 31 on whether to approve the Dodgers' plan to sell television rights to future games, or the league's request to force a sale of the team.

 The judge said that in preparing for the hearing, the league will not have to disclose information to the Dodgers about its dealings with other teams.

 The Dodgers contended in a court filing Monday that such a restriction will impair their ability to prove that Commissioner Bud Selig has not dealt with them in good faith.