Deion Sanders' baseball career has probably ended.

        The Reds essentially cast aside the celebrated two-sport star by designating him for assignment Friday. He has 10 days to either accept or reject the assignment; if he rejects it, Cincinnati can trade or release him.

        Though it has been perceived that the Reds were the only team that wanted Sanders, general manager Jim Bowden said he had conducted trade discussions with two teams involving the outfielder, who hit .173 in 32 games with one home run, four RBI and three steals in seven attempts.

        Lumping Sanders with utilityman Donnie Sadler, who also was designated for assignment, Bowden said, “I would say it's more likely they'll be traded.” Bowden said he had talked to five teams regarding Sadler, who hit .202 in 39 games.

        Until something happens, Sanders is in baseball and football limbo. The Washington Redskins have considered releasing Sanders for salary-cap reasons.

        Asked how Sanders took Friday's news, Reds manager Bob Boone said, “Like a man. I think he appreciated that I was always honest and upfront with him.”

        Sanders' fourth stint with the Reds organization began when he signed a nonguaranteed minor-league contract Jan.24. Because the Reds hadn't tendered him a major-league contract in December, he became ineligible to play for them before May1.

        He passed the time by batting .459 in 19 games at Triple-A Louisville. Center fielder Ken Griffey Jr.'s move to the disabled list April 29 created roster room for Sanders, whose electrifying 3-for-3 debut included a three-run homer and a stolen base. But Sanders hit .139 (10-for-72) after that and exasperated Boone with defensive misplays.

        “It was disappointing that what happened in April and the first day in Cincinnati didn't continue,” Bowden said.

        Citing the Reds' outfield depth and Griffey's return from the disabled list, Bowden added, “We just felt that it was probably in Deion's best interests, as well as the club's, to go in different directions.”

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