Washington ? Two avid baseball fans, Sen. Zell Miller and Rep. Johnny Isakson, are trying to pressure negotiators in an effort to avert the sport’s ninth work stoppage since 1972.

The Georgia lawmakers admit desperation was the motivation behind their resolution, introduced Wednesday in both houses. It calls for the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to get involved in the sport’s labor talks.

But even if Congress approves it and President Bush the former Texas Rangers owner signs it into law, the resolution is nonbinding.

“I want to save this game for those who love it as I do and for those who will come after us,” said Miller, a Democrat. “I do not want to see our national pastime become our national once-upon-a-time.”