Auto racing

Junior Johnson & Associates -- Announced that Tommy Kendall will replace Jimmy Spencer for the upcoming race at Watkins Glen.

Baseball

Detroit Tigers -- Activated P Mike Henneman from the 15-day DL. Optioned C John Flaherty to Triple-A Toledo.

Kansas City Royals -- Placed OF Dave Henderson on the 15-day DL, retroactive to July 30. Purchased the contract of OF Dwayne Hosey from Triple-A Omaha.

New York Mets -- Signed P Kyle Kessel.

Seattle Mariners -- Recalled P Bob Wells from Triple-A Calgary. Optioned P Roger Salkeld to Calgary.

College

Auburn -- Announced the addition of varsity softball for the 1996-97 season.

Baylor -- Named Brad Autry restricted earnings assistant basketball coach.

Northern Illinois -- Named Cary Groth athletic director.

Oregon -- Announced that Rich Brooks, football coach, will relinquish his duties as athletic director.

;/ Towson State -- Named Tag Zentz golf coach.

Football

New Orleans Saints -- Re-signed TE Franklin Thomas.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Waived P Scott Holstein, S MarkuPaul, QB Mark Vlasic, CB Paul White and RB Germaine Williams.

British Columbia Lions (CFL) -- Signed SB Matt Clark.

Arizona Rattlers (Arena Football) -- Activated K Luis Zendejas from IR.

Hockey

Edmonton Oilers -- Announced that Ron Low and Kevin Primeau will be retained as assistant coaches. Named Curtis Brackenbury coordinator of development.

Los Angeles Kings -- Acquired D Ruslan Batyrshin and a 1996 second-round draft choice from the Winnipeg Jets for D Brent Thompson.