Ex-Nationals manager Matt Williams returns to D-Backs staff

PHOENIX (AP) Matt Williams is returning to his old job as third base coach of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The team announced the hiring on Thursday, just over a

PHOENIX (AP) Matt Williams is returning to his old job as third base coach of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The team announced the hiring on Thursday, just over a month after he was fired as manager of the Washington Nationals. Williams, who played for Arizona for six seasons and was part of the team's 2001 World Series championship team, was on the Diamondbacks coaching staff from 2010 through 2013, the last three seasons as third base coach. He lives in Scottsdale.

The Diamondbacks also named Garvis Alston as bullpen coach. Alston spent the last 11 seasons in the Oakland Athletics organization.

The Diamondbacks said hitting coach Turner Ward will not return. Manager Chip Hale said earlier this week that Ward was resigning to pursue other opportunities.