Williamson Picked to Replace Nen

Scott Williamson, a rookie right-hander for the Cincinnati Reds, was named to the National League all-star team Thursday, replacing injured San Francisco Giant closer Robb Nen.

Williamson is one of three Reds on the NL roster, joining starting shortstop Barry Larkin and reserve first baseman Sean Casey.

Williamson, 23, is 7-3 with 10 saves and a 1.55 earned-run average in 58 innings. He leads all NL relievers in ERA and ranks second among major league rookies in saves.

Williamson pitched 23 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings this season--the longest shutout stretch in the majors this season.

Nen is tied for the league lead with 21 saves but will miss the game because of a finger injury.

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Pittsburgh Pirate reliever Rich Loiselle had reconstructive surgery on his right elbow and will be sidelined the rest of the season.

Loiselle, 27, had 29 saves as a rookie in 1997.

He threw three times on the sidelines last week but had pain each time. He was forced to cut short his final workout because of the pain.

Loiselle began the season as the Pirates’ closer but lost the job a week into the season. He was 3-2 with a 5.28 ERA, 14 strikeouts and nine walks in 15 games before going on the disabled list May 8.

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NL umpire Tom Hallion will serve his three-game suspension from July 19-21 rather than this weekend.

The league announced the suspension July 2, saying Hallion was disciplined for his actions during an argument with Colorado catcher Jeff Reed and pitching coach Milt May.

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Reed, released by Colorado last week, signed with the Chicago Cubs.

Reed, 36, batted .255 with two homers in 46 games with the Rockies, who let him go Saturday.

As part of the deal, Chicago has an option for next season.