Spring Training / Dodgers : Ferguson, 38, Is Used in a Pinch and Gets the Game-Winning Hit

The Dodgers hired ex-catcher Joe Ferguson, 38, to be their “Eye in the Sky,” the coach who sits in the press box and positions the outfielders. But Tuesday, they brought Ferguson down to earth--as a pinch-hitter for Ed Amelung--and he delivered a ninth-inning single off pitcher John Franco in the Dodgers’ 2-0 exhibition loss to Cincinnati here.

Ferguson’s at-bat may not have been just for the exercise. He’s been told to keep in shape in case the Dodgers choose to activate him as a pinch-hitter late in the season. Ferguson’s single was one of just four Dodger hits. Pitcher Orel Hershiser, making his first spring start, took the loss. Bobby Castillo was sharp in relief, striking out three in two innings.

Vice President Al Campanis was not at the game. He went to visit his mother in Hollywood, Fla., but just happened to stop on the way back in Pompano Beach, to catch the Texas Rangers. Buddy Bell didn’t play.