Astros release right-hander Williams

Astros release right-hander Williams
Club also announces rotation for first five games of 2008 season

HOUSTON -- The Houston Astros announced today that the club has asked waivers on right-handed pitcher Woody Williams for the purpose of giving him his unconditional release. The announcement was made by general manager Ed Wade.

Williams, 41, was 0-3 with an 11.32 ERA (26ER/20.2IP) in six appearances (five starts) this spring. He was signed by Houston as a free agent on Nov. 24, 2006, and in 33 games for Houston in 2007 (including 31 starts), he was 8-15 with a 5.27 ERA (110ER/188IP).

In 424 career Major League games (330 starts), Williams is 132-116 with a 4.19 ERA (1031ER/2216.1IP), including 10 complete games and four shutouts. He earned National League All-Star honors in 2003, and he has pitched in 15 big league seasons with Toronto (1993-98), San Diego (1999-2001; 2005-06), St. Louis (2001-04) and the Astros (2007).

The club also announced its rotation for the season's first five games. As previously released, right-hander Roy Oswalt will make his club-record sixth consecutive Opening Day start for the club on Monday at San Diego. Right-hander Brandon Backe will start on Tuesday at the Padres, with left-hander Wandy Rodriguez starting on Wednesday night against the Padres.

Additionally, on Thursday, right-hander Shawn Chacon will start in the series finale at PETCO Park, while right-hander Chris Sampson will start for Houston in the series opener at Wrigley Field against the Chicago Cubs on Friday.