Associated Press
Sunday, March 30, 2008

Woody Williams was put on unconditional release waivers yesterday by the Houston Astros, who owe the pitcher $6.5 million.

The 41-year-old right-hander was 8-15 with a 5.27 ERA last season and had an 11.32 ERA in spring training this year. He gave up five runs and five hits in three innings Friday during a 10-0 exhibition loss to Detroit.

First baseman Lance Berkman questioned the timing.

"Possibly a bit premature," he said. "The game is completely different in the regular season than it is in spring training, especially from a guy like Woody who has been around the block a few times."

¿ YANKEES: Left-hander Andy Pettitte reported no problems one day after throwing 25 pitches off a bullpen mound.

Pettitte will pitch in a minor league game today and is scheduled to make his first start Saturday.

¿ ROYALS: A groin strain has put Hideo Nomo's comeback bid on hold.

The right-hander is headed back to Arizona for physical therapy on the right groin muscle he injured earlier this week. But Nomo, 39, doesn't think the injury will end his attempt to return after two seasons out of the major leagues.

¿ DIAMONDBACKS: Trot Nixon accepted a minor league assignment after he lost out to outfielder Alex Romero for a spot on the Opening Day roster.

The Diamondbacks signed Nixon to a minor league contract last month.