BASEBALL: R. Soriano deal

Relief pitcher Rafael Soriano and the Braves agreed yesterday to a $9 million, two-year contract that avoided arbitration . . . Relief pitcher Matt Guerrier and the Twins agreed to a $950,000, one-year contract that avoided a salary arbitration hearing . . . The Dodgers hired longtime infielder Jose Vizcaino as a special assistant.

NFL: Cole to Pro Bowl

Eagles defensive end Trent Cole was added to the NFC Pro Bowl roster yesterday in place of injured Seahawks end Patrick Kearney.

* Eric Price, who was on Herm Edwards’ staff for two years with the Jets, is rejoining Edwards as wide receivers coach in Kansas City . . . *Tampa Bay fullback Mike Alstott retired yesterday.

GOLF: Qatar Masters

Anton Haig and Lee Westwood each shot 5-under 67s yesterday to share the lead after the first round of the Qatar Masters.