[naviga:h3]Sandoval planning return to Giants[/naviga:h3]

SAN FRANCISCO — Pablo Sandoval plans to sign a minor league contract to return to the San Francisco Giants, a person with knowledge of his intentions said.

The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the agreement had not been announced.

Sandoval technically will not be free to agree to a deal with a team until 1 p.m. EDT Friday.

The Boston Red Sox released Sandoval on Wednesday when the third baseman didn’t report after being designated for assignment last week.

[naviga:h3]Cavaliers may sign former MVP Rose[/naviga:h3]

CLEVELAND — The Cavaliers could be adding another former MVP to their roster.

Looking to close the gap on the champion Golden State Warriors, Cleveland is in contract talks with free agent guard Derrick Rose, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. Rose, whose career has been sidetracked by injuries, could sign a one-year deal for the veteran’s minimum, according to the person.

Cleveland has salary cap issues and is limited in what it can offer Rose, who made $21.3 million while playing in 64 games for the New York Knicks last season.

ESPN.com first reported the Cavs’ pursuit of the 28-year-old Rose. Other teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, are interested in him.

[naviga:h3]Bowman to replace Dale Jr. next year[/naviga:h3]

INDIANAPOLIS — Dale Earnhardt Jr. got the replacement he wanted. Alex Bowman got his dream job.

Hendrick Motorsports announced that the 24-year-old Bowman will replace one of the series’ biggest stars in the No. 88 car next season after Earnhardt retires.

Bowman has big shoes to fill. Earnhardt was named NASCAR’s most popular driver each of the last 14 seasons and fans of his late father often tracked Junior’s results.