MLB commissioner says Cubs' decision on Bryant not for Boras

FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred says agent Scott Boras should steer clear of the Chicago Cubs' plan on how to handle rookie Kris Bryant.

Manfred spoke Friday at the spring training home of the Minnesota Twins.

''I don't think the Cubs' decision with respect to what's going to happen with Kris Bryant is really any of Mr. Boras' business,'' Manfred said.

The 23-year-old Bryant has hit nine home runs this spring, most in the majors. He led the minor leagues with 43 homers last season.

The Cubs seem to be leaning toward starting the third baseman in the minors. If Bryant begins in the minors, the Cubs could gain an extra year until he's eligible for free agency.

Boras brought up the ''integrity'' of baseball in lobbying for Bryant to begin the season in the majors.

''I think the Cubs - I know the Cubs - will make decisions that are best for the long-term competitiveness of that club,'' Manfred said.

''Focusing on whether a particular player has played or (is) with a club on a day or days, I don't think is a fair evaluation of what the club is up to. The club is in the best position, and the Cubs are in the best position to decide what's going to make them the most competitive over the longest period of time,'' he said.