MLB NOTES: White Sox’s Thome ties Mantle for career home runs

Published 11:12 pm Sunday, August 31, 2008

INDIANS: The Cleveland Indians traded minor league infielder Jorge Velandia to the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday for cash.

RED SOX: The Boston Red Sox optioned Michael Bowden to Class AAA Pawtucket one day after he won his major league debut and recalled outfielder Jonathan Van Every from their top farm club Sunday. With first baseman Kevin Youkilis and center fielder Coco Crisp out sick Sunday, the Red Sox recalled Van Every to add some depth for their game against the White Sox.

WHITE SOX: White Sox slugger Jim Thome hit career home run No. 536 on Sunday against the Boston Red Sox, moving into a tie with Mickey Mantle for 14th on the career list.

CUBS: Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano was scratched from his start Sunday against the Philadelphia Phillies to give him some time to rest his tired arm. Zambrano, a 13-game winner this season, is 1-1 over his last five starts and twice failed to get out of the fifth inning.

METS: Top New York Mets pitching prospect Jonathan Niese will be recalled from Class AAA New Orleans to make his major league debut in the heat of the playoff race Tuesday against Milwaukee.

Associated Press