Blowers A Big Hit In Dodgers Debut

Spring training

Mike Blowers is one of the additions the Los Angeles Dodgers hope will pay off in 1996, and in the team’s first intrasquad game of spring training, the third baseman made himself noticeable.

Blowers doubled to the center-field fence, singled to right field and drove in two runs during the eight-inning contest at Vero Beach, Fla.

“It’s always nice to get out and start playing again,” said Blowers, acquired by the Dodgers in a trade with Seattle in November. “The guys got to swing the bats in a game situation. I think everybody got something out of it.”

Though no one puts a lot of stock in intrasquad games, the Dodgers had to be encouraged by the defense.

There was only one error, when shortstop Wilton Guerrero overthrew first base, and several nice plays.

Braves suit up

The Atlanta Braves received some fashion tips for their visit today with President Clinton.

A message in the clubhouse reminded players: “Those going to the White House, don’t forget to wear a suit.” “It’s always exciting to meet the president,” reliever Greg McMichael said. “I’ve never been to the White House. It will be interesting to take a tour, see what goes on behind the scenes.”

The Braves will fly to Washington after a morning workout for a reception with Clinton, who couldn’t meet with them after their World Series victory because of the Bosnian crisis and the government shutdown.

Taylor fights back

Brien Taylor, the top pick in the 1991 baseball draft, is hoping to regain the zip in his left arm.

His career with the New York Yankees was jeopardized by a serious shoulder injury in 1993 when he tried to help his cousin during a brawl. He needed surgery and missed the 1994 season.

When he returned late last season for 11 games in the Gulf Coast League, Taylor was 2-5 with a 6.08 ERA. The fastball was gone.

Tonight, he will work in an intrasquad game.

“It was good to come back and get the chance to throw against anybody,” Taylor said. “I feel like I’m throwing the ball pretty hard again. Everything is coming together. It’s coming day-to-day. It’s not happening overnight.”

Curious candidate

Republican presidential hopeful Lamar Alexander visited the A’s training camp, using the team and its scenic Papago Park as backdrop for a campaign appearance in the lead-up to the Arizona primary on Tuesday.

When he was introduced to Oakland manager Art Howe, the Republican candidate momentarily turned into a sportswriter.

“Who leads off for the A’s now?” asked Alexander, mindful that Rickey Henderson has departed.

“I’ll let you know as soon as I do,” said Howe, hoping to rebuild a team that lost Henderson and other veterans through free agency and trades.

Bucs re-sign Martin

Outfielder Al Martin and the Pittsburgh Pirates have agreed to a two-year contract reportedly worth $2.5 million.

Martin was not eligible to file for salary arbitration until after this season, and the Pirates could have automatically renewed the old contract.

“The organization showed me a lot by doing something when they didn’t have to,” said Martin, who hit .282 with 13 homers and 41 RBIs and stole 20 bases last season.