PHILADELPHIA – Billy Wagner questioned Houston ownership’s commitment to winning. He won’t have those problems with the Philadelphia Phillies.

The All-Star closer was traded Monday from the cost-cutting Astros to the Phillies for right-hander Brandon Duckworth, and minor league right-handers Taylor Buchholz and Ezequiel Astacio.

Wagner, a three-time All-Star, goes from one of baseball’s best bullpens to among its worst. The Phillies converted just 33 saves in 51 opportunities as Jose Mesa and Mike Williams both faltered.

“I’m excited about coming to Philadelphia because they obviously have made a commitment to winning a championship,” Wagner said.

Wagner had criticized Astros owner Drayton McLane for not making a move to get another quality starting pitcher for the 2003 season and expected more of the same for next season.

White Sox name Guillen manager

CHICAGO – Ozzie Guillen is back with the Chicago White Sox, this time as the team’s manager.

The three-time All-Star shortstop was hired Monday to replace Jerry Manuel, who was fired Sept. 29 after the White Sox failed to reach the playoffs for the second straight year.

Guillen has no managerial experience and has spent the past two seasons as the third-base coach for the Florida Marlins.

But he made it clear how badly he wanted this job, and his passion won over general manager Kenny Williams and owner Jerry Reinsdorf.

Ivan Rodriguez files

for free agency

NEW YORK – Catcher Ivan Rodriguez filed for free agency Monday, nine days after helping the Florida Marlins win the World Series.

Rodriguez also became a free agent after the 2002 season. When he didn’t find a deal to his liking, he agreed Jan. 20 to a $10 million, one-year contract.

He hit .297 with 16 homers and 85 RBIs during the season, then batted .313 with three homers and 17 RBIs during the postseason. He was voted MVP of the NL championship series.

While Rodriguez had long been represented by Jeff Moorad, he switched agents this year and will have Scott Boras negotiate his new deal.