Sports briefs

? Royals name broadcaster VP of public relations

Kansas City, Mo. – The Kansas City Royals on Thursday named Toby Cook, a local TV anchor, vice president of public relations.

Cook, who has worked for WDAF-TV in Kansas City since 1998 and co-hosted the station’s weekday morning newscasts, will report Aug. 7.

“I always said the one thing that would get me out of television would be an opportunity to promote an organization I believe in,” Cook said. “There is no organization that fits the bill like the Royals.”

Royals president Dan Glass said Cook would oversee the club’s community and charitable efforts.

MacDougal off DL

Detroit – The Kansas City Royals activated closer Mike MacDougal from the 60-day disabled list Thursday. MacDougal has not pitched this season after straining his right shoulder during spring training. He was 21-for-25 in save situations last season. To make room on the roster, the Royals optioned right-hander Joe Nelson to Triple-A Omaha.

Nats, Reds broker eight-player deal

Cincinnati – Worried their rickety bullpen was dragging them out of playoff contention, the Cincinnati Reds swung an eight-player trade with Washington on Thursday, adding relievers Gary Majewski and Bill Bray.

The Reds gave up right fielder Austin Kearns and shortstop Felipe Lopez, hoping to shore up one of the majors’ worst bullpens.

Besides the with right-handed Majewski and lefty Bray, the Reds acquired shortstop Royce Clayton, infielder Brendan Harris and pitching prospect Daryl Thompson.

Yankees to sign Ponson

New York – The New York Yankees are expected to sign the talented-but-troubled Sidney Ponson today. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said Thursday the deal “made sense, compared to everything else that was available to us.”

Home plate ump injured

Miami – Home plate umpire Rick Reed left Thursday night’s game between the Houston Astros and the Florida Marlins in the second inning with a broken blood vessel in his nose.