Mitch Williams takes leave from MLB Network job

Former Phillies closer Mitch Williams has taken a leave of absence from his analyst role at MLB Network after reportedly using profanity and ordering a pitcher to hit a batter during a youth baseball tournament.

Williams, 49, was ejected two weekends ago from a Ripken Baseball tournament in Aberdeen, Md. He coached his 10-year-old son's team, the Jersey Wild. According to anonymous eyewitness accounts on Deadspin.com, Williams berated umpires as well as opposing coaches and players.

During the next day of the tournament, Williams allegedly ordered one of his players to plunk the opposing team's pitcher when he batted.

"Mitch Williams has decided to take a leave of absence from his role at MLB Network at this time," a network spokesperson wrote in an e-mail to the New York Daily News. "We are continuing to look into the matter."

Williams drew criticism from the Phillies clubhouse last summer when he called for former pitching coach Rich Dubee's dismissal. Dubee was fired at the conclusion of the season.