A-Rod cousin seeks delay in drug trial

MIAMI - A cousin of New York Yankees star Alex Rodriguez is asking a federal judge to delay his trial on charges stemming from his dealings with the Florida clinic tied to more than a dozen baseball players suspended for violating the sport's drug program.

The lawyer for Yuri Sucart said in a court filing Wednesday that Sucart has been hampered by serious health problems and has been unable to fully participate in his defense. The filing also says Sucart needs more time to review the voluminous evidence.

Sucart's lawyer is seeking at least a two-month delay in the trial, currently scheduled to start Feb. 9. Rodriguez figures to be a witness if Sucart does go to trial.

Sucart is charged with conspiracy and distribution of testosterone and human growth hormone to MLB players and other athletes through the Biogenesis of America clinic operated by Anthony Bosch.

Rodriguez served a season-long suspension this year for violations of the drug program and baseball's labor contract. He is owed $61 million in the three remaining seasons of his contract with the Yankees.