Colangelo resigns ahead of schedule

Phoenix — Jerry Colangelo resigned as chief executive officer of the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday, four months ahead of schedule. Colangelo, who agreed last month to leave on Dec. 31, will remain as chairman of the team through the 2005 season and then serve as emeritus team executive, the club said. He also will have duties as a liaison between the team and major league baseball.

Colangelo was forced out of his position as CEO on Aug. 6 by four businessmen who became majority owners two years ago. In the same power move, player agent Jeff Moorad was hired as Colangelo’s replacement. Moorad will now take over as CEO on Oct. 15.

Appeals court upholds Bradley’s jail sentence

Akron, Ohio — An appeals court has upheld a three-day jail sentence Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Milton Bradley was ordered to serve for driving away while being issued a speeding ticket.

The Ninth District Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that the trial judge did not unfairly sentence Bradley after he pleaded guilty earlier this year to a charge of obstructing official business, a second degree misdemeanor.

Schmidt to step down

Philadelphia — Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt will not return to manage the Philadelphia Phillies’ Class A team in Clearwater, Fla