Cubs’ Prior Won’t Pitch Until May

Chicago Cub pitcher Mark Prior probably won’t pitch until May because of inflammation in his right Achilles’ tendon and a stiff elbow.

“I’d say May 1 or the first week of May is optimistic,” Cub General Manager Jim Hendry said Tuesday.

Prior returned to spring training Tuesday after spending Monday in Chicago, where he had an MRI exam and bone scan on his Achilles’ tendon and right arm.

The 23-year-old right-hander has not pitched in a spring training game because of the Achilles’ injury and was already expected to start the season on the disabled list.

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The San Francisco Giants acquired left-hander Wayne Franklin and right-handed reliever Leo Estrella from the Milwaukee Brewers for two minor leaguers.

Milwaukee gets right-handers Carlos Villanueva and Glenn Woolard in the deal, which provides an immediate boost to San Francisco’s banged-up pitching staff, with closer Robb Nen and reliever Scott Eyre going on the 15-day disabled list.

The Giants also signed infielder Deivi Cruz, right-hander Dave Veres and right-hander Mike Crudale to minor league contracts.

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Texas Ranger right fielder Brian Jordan might start the season on the disabled list because of a sore left knee.... Ken Griffey Jr. was out of the lineup but in good spirits a day after the Cincinnati Red outfielder strained his right calf while running out a grounder Monday night.... The Florida Marlins signed pitcher Tanyon Sturtze to a minor league contract a day after the right-hander asked for and received his release from the Dodgers.