Indians release outfielder Escobar

Cleveland — The Cleveland Indians released Alex Escobar on Thursday, making the often-injured outfielder a free agent. Escobar was a key component of the December 2001 trade that sent Roberto Alomar to the New York Mets. But Escobar, at one time considered a five-tool player, was injured in two of his three seasons in the Indians organization.

The 25-year-old outfielder is sidelined for the rest of this season because of a broken right foot.

Floyd, Reyes join Mets’ injury list

New York — Outfielder Cliff Floyd and infielder Jose Reyes joined the New York Mets’ lengthy injured list and were kept out of the starting lineup for Thursday’s 2-1 win over the Houston Astros.

Floyd was hit by a pitch from Houston’s Roy Oswalt with first base open during Wednesday night’s 5-4, 10-inning loss. Floyd hit a grand slam off Oswalt on May 14.

Reyes hobbled off the field after doubling as a pinch hitter Wednesday night.

Phillies’ Burrell to seek second opinion on wrist

Philadelphia — Pat Burrell will seek a second opinion on his strained left wrist and delay season-ending surgery for at least a week in hopes of returning to Philadelphia’s lineup this season.

“I’m going to try and do everything I can to get back,” Burrell said Thursday.

Burrell was scheduled to have surgery today, but instead will go to Baltimore on Monday for a second opinion. Burrell said his wrist was feeling better.