Giants extend Alou's contract through 2006

The San Francisco Giants extended Felipe Alou's contract through the 2006 season Wednesday, ending any speculation about whether the manager would return for a fourth season.

The 70-year-old Alou and the Giants have a mutual option for 2007. Alou, who took over the team from Dusty Baker after the 2002 season, is one of only three managers in franchise history to win at least 90 games in his first two years.

San Francisco has struggled at the start this year with slugger Barry Bonds sidelined all season by a knee injury.

"Usually it doesn't happen in a losing situation, but I appreciate the fact they have confidence in me," Alou said.

Alou led the Giants to the NL West title in 2003.

Cubs call up pitcher

The Chicago Cubs recalled left-hander John Koronka from Class AAA Iowa to start against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday night in his major league debut.

The Cubs optioned right-hander Jon Leicester to Iowa.

Koronka is replacing Mark Prior in the Cubs' rotation. Prior sustained a compression fracture near his right elbow when he was hit by a line drive last Friday and is sidelined indefinitely.

KC keep Yanks reeling

The Kansas City Royals beat Randy Johnson for the first time in 12 years, handing the New York Yankees their fourth straight loss with a 3-1 victory Wednesday night.