Williams’ Return Is Delayed

Bernie Williams’ return to the New York Yankees has been delayed at least one week after he strained his injured right knee during a minor league game.

The Yankees said Williams was evaluated Tuesday by a team doctor in Tampa, Fla.

He will resume rehabilitation today and is expected to play for Tampa again in a week. He then will play only a few games in Tampa before rejoining New York.

Williams left Monday night’s Florida State League game between the Tampa Yankees and Clearwater Phillies in the fifth inning after fielding a ball in center field and throwing to third.

Because of the knee strain, Williams missed a trip to Denver for Tuesday’s All-Star game. The center fielder, picked as a reserve, had been expected to rejoin the Yankees after the break.

Yankee reliever Jeff Nelson, already disabled because of a bad back, broke his small right toe in an accident in his hotel room. He will start throwing off the mound this weekend.

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The Cleveland Indians recalled outfielder Brian Giles from the triple-A Buffalo Bisons and activated him from the 15-day disabled list.

To make room for Giles, the Indians optioned outfielder Richie Sexson to Buffalo.

Giles had been in Buffalo on a rehabilitation assignment.