National League President Len Coleman has given Reds CEO Marge Schott a ''substantial fine'' for talking to the media about the club's stadium crisis, the Enquirer has learned.
Earlier this week, Mrs. Schott told newspapers and TV stations that the Reds would consider playing in a transformed Cinergy Field instead of forcing Hamilton County taxpayers to pay for a new ballpark.
But a source close to the situation said Wednesday night Mrs. Schott violated the terms of her suspension from Major League Baseball when she gave those interviews. She must get permission from Mr. Coleman to do interviews, and she must conduct them in the presence of a Reds official.
''Neither of those things took place,'' the source said. ''Len is irked by what happened, no question. It's a personal fine. It's less than $50,000, but it is five figures.''
The NL has continually forwarded all stadium questions to Reds Managing Executive John Allen, Mrs. Schott's replacement during her suspension, which ends Nov. 1, 1998.
In September, Mr. Coleman rejected a request by Broadway Commons supporters to get involved in the debate over a site for a Reds stadium, reiterating that Mr. Allen was the Reds' stadium point man.
Those close to Mr. Allen say he was surprised by Mrs. Schott's statements but said they are on the ''same page'' when it comes to looking at a transformed Cinergy.
''John Allen is definitely the spokesman on this issue,''
the source said.
Mr. Coleman and Mr. Allen could not be reached for comment Wednesday night.
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