DENVER - Aaron Boone remained optimistic about a labor settlement after Tuesday's conference call with other player representatives and Players' Association officials. But the Reds third baseman admits things could change quickly.

        “We have another big week of negotiations this week,” said Boone, the Reds' player rep. “This is an important week. Hopefully, we'll continue to move forward.”

        Boone said there was no discussion about setting a strike date, which could happen when the player reps meet Monday in Chicago.

        “That was not brought up,” Boone said. “I think (the owners) know we'll do it. It's a last resort. We want to try to get this resolved.”

        The Reds already have authorized Boone to vote on their behalf in setting a strike date. He'll pass that function to Sean Casey, the Reds' alternate rep, who is going to the Chicago meeting. Boone has a previous commitment and cannot attend.

        The major topic of discussion Tuesday was steroid testing.

        “We're ready to submit a proposal,” Boone said. “I think you'll hear something on that in the next couple of days.”

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