SAN DIEGO -- An animal rights group has asked the San Diego Padres to back out of a deal giving the Petco retail firm naming rights to the team's new downtown ballpark.

Discussion

PETCO PARK What Do You Think Of The Name?

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is leading a boycott against the San Diego-based pet-supply chain, alleging animal cruelty at some of its stores. The group contends a high number of animals have died from disease and crowding at Petco stores.

A letter sent this week to Padres officials asks the team to cancel a 22-year contract to name the new field Petco Park. The team announced the deal, worth $60 million, on Wednesday. The ballpark is scheduled to open in April 2004.

Padres President Dick Freeman said the team had investigated PETA's claim and was comfortable that Petco was "handling the situation well."

James Myers, Petco's chief financial officer, said the company's highest priority is concern and care for animals. PETA's underlying motivation in attacking Petco, Myers said, is that it "doesn't believe people should have pets."

PETA spokeswoman Colleen O'Brien said the group is asking its members and supporters to write the Padres to voice their disapproval.