Baseball owners and players appeared before a House committee today, where players pledged to return to the field if Congress passed legislation making baseball accountable under antitrust laws. Baseball has enjoyed a 72-year exemption, a privilege not extended to any other sport. Members of the committee had harsh words for both sides, criticizing them for putting business over an obligation to the fans. But Democrat Jack Brooks of Texas agreed to push for a bill that would allow for players to sue, instead of strike, if owners impose a salary cap.