A libel suit against Canseco would be risky and costly

"A lot of libel suits are brought out of rage. If I had a client who said, `I hate steroids, my entire career has been built around my personal character, what this person is saying about me is an unmitigated lie and I can guarantee that and I want to do something about it,' I would say to him, `If you can get a jury to believe you, then sue him, but first figure if a lawsuit is worth the time and the money."'

Whether any of the players is contemplating suing Canseco for libel is uncertain. McGwire's agent, Marc Altieri, and Jason Giambi's agent, Arn Tellem, declined to comment. Pat Rooney, who represents Palmeiro and Tejada; Scott Boras, who represents Rodriguez; and Scott Pucino, who represents Gonzalez, did not return messages seeking comment.

"It's an evaluation process now," said a person involved in the players' decision making. "I don't think any formal position can be taken yet."