Curt Schilling created a potential PED mess Thursday by saying the Boston Red Sox once encouraged him to take performance-enhancing drugs, but Major League Baseball cleaned it up just as quickly Friday, saying the matter is “closed” after an investigation in 2008.

Schilling’s comments referred to an incident that had been brought to light by the Red Sox, and MLB was satisfied it was handled correctly when the accusations first surfaced.

“At the time of the incident in question in 2008, the Boston Red Sox immediately reported the allegations to Major League Baseball as required by our investigative protocols,” MLB’s statement said. “Once the Red Sox reported the matter, Major League Baseball assumed sole responsibility for the investigation. The club handled the matter consistent with all MLB rules and requirements, and in a manner above reproach.”

Schilling said Thursday that someone from the Red Sox — not any uniformed personnel or member of the baseball operations department — approached him in the clubhouse and suggested using PEDs.

“It was an incredibly uncomfortable conversation because it came up in the midst of a group of people,” he said in an interview with ESPN Radio. “The other people weren’t in the conversation but they could clearly hear the conversation. And it was suggested to me that at my age and in my situation, why not? What did I have to lose? Because if I wasn’t going to get healthy, it didn’t matter. And if I did get healthy, great.”

Shortly after the interview, MLB officials said they again would look into the matter to make sure there were no new allegations. According to Friday’s statement, their findings were conclusive.

“Major League Baseball thoroughly investigated the allegations and considers the matter closed,” the statement said. 

DIAMONDBACKS: The team and second baseman Aaron Hill reached a deal that will keep him under contract through the 2016 season. 

METS: Reliever Brandon Lyon signed a one-year deal. 

CARDINALS: Third baseman David Freese, the 2011 World Series MVP, reached agreement on a one-year contract that avoids salary arbitration. 

MARLINS: Third baseman Chone Figgins signed a minor-league contract with an invitation to major-league camp beginning next week. 

YANKEES: Hal Steinbrenner, the managing general partner, said he’s concerned about the latest drug allegations swirling around third baseman Alex Rodriguez but that the matter is being looked at by Major League Baseball. 

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