This works in VMware server 1.0.x for linux.

Check status (up or down):
vmware-cmd /pathtoyourvmxfile/vmxfile.vmx getstate

Start virtual server:
vmware-cmd /pathtoyourvmxfile/vmxfile.vmx start

Shutdown virtual server:
vmware-cmd /pathtoyourvmxfile/vmxfile.vmx stop