Former Atlanta Braves Pitcher Dies

DUNNELLON, Fla., - Former Atlanta Braves pitcher Mike Payne died after a yearlong battle with Eastern equine encephalitis. He was 40.<br> <br> Payne died Sunday at his home from complications of the rare virus, contracted from mosquito bites. The brain-swelling disease has been found in horses and birds throughout Florida, but is rare in humans.<br> <br> Payne, a former high school baseball coach, was hospitalized on Aug. 5, 2001. Officials said he contracted the disease while working in his yard.<br> <br> He had been living with his family for seven months, but was confined to a wheelchair and had lost the ability to speak.<br> <br> Payne pitched in three games - starting one - for Atlanta in 1984. He lost his only decision while posting a 6.36 ERA.<br> <br> Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday.<br> <br>

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