BALTIMORE -- Baltimore Orioles first baseman Eddie Murray, stung by criticism from owner Edward Bennett Williams, wants to be traded, it was reported today.
A source close to Murray told The Baltimore Sun that the six-time All-Star slugger has been upset with team officials since spring training when he felt he was rushed back too soon from an ankle injury.
Murray has been disturbed by critical newspaper stories and by negative comments on radio talk shows, the source told the newspaper.
The source also said that criticism by Williams last week contributed to Murray's decision. Williams questioned Murray's off-season work habits and how it affected other team members. Williams said Murray's defense and lack of extra base hits 'were hurting the team.'
Orioles general manager Hank Peters would not talk about the published report. 'I have no comment on any conversations with Eddie,' he said.
Murray was unavailable last night.
Murray's agent, Ron Shapiro, said he expected to meet with Murray this morning to find out his client's plans.
Murray, 30, is under contract with the Orioles until 1991. His five-year pact that begins next season is worth more than $12 million.
Murray is hitting .303 with 12 home runs and 60 RBI. He has played in 97 of the Orioles' 122 games this season, missing more games than any other season in his major-league career.
Murray was placed on the disabled list for the first time in his 10-year career last month.
