AROUND THE MAJORS

The Chicago White Sox released veteran right-handed pitcher Kirk McCaskill after Wednesday’s 6-5 loss to Oakland and called up Luis Andujar from Triple-A Nashville to start Thursday’s game against Texas.

McCaskill, 35, was 5-5 with a 6.97 ERA in 29 games, including four starts. He joined the White Sox in 1992 as a starter but was eventually sent to the bullpen. He has started only five games the last three seasons.

McCaskill, who spent seven seasons with the Angels, has a 106-108 career record.

“I don’t think you’re ever prepared for it. I’ve had a long career and it happens to a lot of people,” McCaskill said.

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The Kansas City Royals have agreed to grant pitcher Kevin Appier a no-trade clause and are closer to re-signing their pitching ace, The Kansas City Star reported today.

General manager Herk Robinson and Appier apparently reached agreement during an informal talk while the Royals waited out a rain delay in Boston Tuesday, the newspaper said.

Robinson had said previously that granting a no-trade clause violated club policy. Appier becomes a free agent at the end of the season. At least four teams have expressed interest in Appier.

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Outfielder Joe Carter and manager Cito Gaston agreed Wednesday to contract extensions through the 1997 season.