NEW YORK — The Big East's plan to save the conference involves heading West.

Conference leaders agreed on a plan to invite Boise State, Air Force and Navy as football-only members, and Central Florida to compete in all sports, after they double the exit fee for current members to $10 million. Houston and SMU are likely next in line as full members as the Big East tries to get to 12 schools.

An official in the Big East, speaking on condition of anonymity because the conference had not authorized anyone to speak publicly about its plans, told The Associated Press invitations could go out as soon as next week. The official also said Commissioner John Marinatto was in Cincinnati meeting with UCF officials.

With 12 football schools, the Big East would split into two divisions and could play a championship game.

ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. — Webb Simpson kept his name near the top of the leaderboard in the McGladrey Class and his eyes on a showdown with Luke Donald next week at Disney for the money title.Simpson shot a 3-under 67, leaving him two shots behind leader Billy Horschel (64) on Sea Island's Seaside course. Horschel was 12 under. Michael Thompson (65) matched Simpson at 10 under.

CHICAGO — The Cubs are still talking with the Boston Red Sox about compensation in a deal to bring general manager Theo Epstein to Chicago, a person familiar with the negotiations said Friday.Epstein has agreed to a deal with Chicago and would leave Boston with a year left on his contract, the person said on condition of anonymity.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Former baseball star Manny Ramirez pleaded not guilty to a domestic battery charge involving his wife. Ramirez’s attorney filed the written plea ahead of the scheduled arraignment. Ramirez didn’t appear at the hearing. He’s free on $2,500 bail.The 2004 World Series MVP was arrested Sept. 12. His wife told investigators Ramirez slapped her, causing her head to strike a bed headboard.