Reliever Williams Traded to Phillies

Right-handed reliever Mike Williams was traded from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia on Sunday in a deal that upgrades the Phillies’ bullpen.

Williams, who was on the National League All-Star team despite an earned-run average above 6.00, welcomed a deal he predicts will be the first of several the Pirates make before the July 31 trading deadline.

“I expected this, no doubt,” said Williams, who was half-dressed for the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Pirates when he was called into Manager Lloyd McClendon’s office. “I know trades are coming and I’m not going to be the only one. I’m not disappointed at all.”

The Pirates received minor league left-hander Frank Brooks in the trade.

The deal was the second by the Pirates involving Williams in three seasons. They sent him to Houston in July 2001, but he re-signed with the Pirates after that season and had a club-record 46 saves last season.

He ranked third in the major leagues in saves behind Atlanta’s John Smoltz (55) and the Dodgers’ Eric Gagne (52)

Williams, who turns 35 on July 29, has 25 saves in 30 opportunities this season.

*

Chicago Cub pitcher Mark Prior, still bothered by soreness in his right shoulder, will not make his next start Tuesday and will fly to Chicago for an MRI exam.

The All-Star right-hander bruised his shoulder in a collision with Atlanta second baseman Marcus Giles on July 11.

*

Texas right fielder Juan Gonzalez sat out the Rangers’ game against Tampa Bay at St. Petersburg, Fla, because of a strained right calf.

Gonzalez will return to Texas and not accompany the team for a two-game series at Baltimore that begins tonight. He will be reevaluated Wednesday when the Rangers return home.

*

San Francisco center fielder Marquis Grissom left the Giants’ game against Colorado because of a bruised left kneecap suffered when he crashed into the wall to make a catch of a Bobby Estalella drive in the seventh inning. He was listed as day to day.

*

Minnesota third baseman Corey Koskie was put on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to July 12, because of a back injury that is not healing as quickly as expected.