PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Jody Gerut, out for most of two seasons with knee problems, accepted a $25,000 pay cut and agreed Thursday to an $850,000, one-year deal.

Gerut bypassed arbitration in accepting a cut from his 2006 salary of $875,000. He had asked for $925,000 and the Pirates had offered $800,000.

The left-handed hitting Gerut can make $140,000 in performance bonuses: $15,000 each for 200 and 250 plate appearances, $20,00 for 350 plate appearances, $25,000 each for 400 and 500 plate appearances and $40,000 for 550 plate appearances.

Gerut had his second knee operation in three seasons last year and did not play in the majors.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — With dozens of famous drivers, car owners and crew chiefs on hand, NASCAR broke ground on its long-awaited Hall of Fame on Thursday, promising to properly honor its rich history.Seven-time Cup series champion Richard Petty joined NASCAR president Mike Helton and others in moving the first clumps of red clay for the $107.5 million facility that is to open by the spring of 2010.NASCAR decided to put its Hall of Fame in the heart of stock car country last March when it selected Charlotte over Atlanta; Daytona Beach, Fla.; Richmond, Va.; and Kansas City, Kan.

The Butler County American Legion Baseball League announced its officers for the 2007 season.Dess Schnur returns as president, Tom Schneider as vice president and Bob Steiner as treasurer. John Link replaces Jim Bacon as secretary and Jerry Piroch is public relations director and all-star chairman.With the addition of squads in Prospect and Cranberry Township, the leaguewill feature 12 teams this season.League registration is now available. Baseball players ages 16 to 19 can call Piroch at 724-285-5852 to be directed to the team manager in their respective areas.