All Is Not Wells With White Sox

Pitcher David Wells plans to retire if his $10-million option for next season isn’t guaranteed by the Chicago White Sox--or any other team.

Struggling Chicago, on course to fall from first to last in the American League Central, is trying to trade the left-hander, the Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday.

“If my option is not picked up, I’m going to retire,” Wells said before the White Sox lost to Toronto, the team that traded him. “I’ll be done. That’s it.”

Wells, 38, is making $9.25 million this season and his contract has a $10 million team option for next year.

Left-hander Mark Redman was put on the 15-day disabled list by the Minnesota Twins because of a strained muscle in his throwing arm.

Minnesota called up left-hander Brad Thomas from double-A New Britain and scheduled him to start in the second game of Saturday’s doubleheader against Oakland.

Cuban pitcher Danys Baez, who pitched well in his three appearances for Cleveland, was optioned to triple-A Buffalo by the Indians.

The Indians think Baez’s future is as a setup man or closer and sent him to the minors so he could gain more experience and get into a regular throwing program.

Texas Ranger right-hander Ryan Glynn missed his scheduled start Wednesday against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays because of a stomach virus. Glynn is schedule to start Saturday for Aaron Myette, who replaced him Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Bill Jones, the television play-by-play announcer for the Rangers, was hospitalized after experiencing chest pains while jogging. He was expected to remain overnight after several tests.

Cincinnati Red Manager Bob Boone is encouraged to hear Ken Griffey Jr. talk about returning in two weeks but he’s not counting on it. Griffey, who tore his left hamstring during a spring training game, did well on a strength test last week and is running.

Pittsburgh Pirate right-hander Kris Benson had surgery to replace an elbow ligament and is not expected to pitch for a year.