Spring Training / Padres : Bubble Doesn’t Burst: McReynolds OK, Padres Win

During the second inning of the Padres-Cubs game Tuesday, San Diego’s center fielder Kevin McReynolds walked slowly, gingerly to the clubhouse, accompanied by a trainer.

This certainly seemed scary, considering McReynolds is trying to come back from a fractured bone in his left hand suffered last season. Had he aggravated the injury?

Not at all. McReynolds apparently had been chewing his bubble gum much too furiously and had developed a pain under his ear, around his temple. Trainer Dick Dent said later it’s a common injury called “TMJ.” McReynolds will see a dentist today, but it is not considered serious.

The Padres ended up defeating the Cubs, 6-5, in 14 innings, the last exhibition game in Yuma this year.

San Diego had led, 5-3, entering the ninth inning, but relief pitcher Goose Gossage gave up a two-out, two-run double to Tony Castillo.

The Padres had an opportunity to win the game in the ninth, but Kurt Bevacqua was thrown out by outfielder Gary Woods as he tried to score from second base following a Tim Flannery single. Then, in the 11th, the Cubs’ Thad Bosley was thrown out at the plate by Bevacqua.

Finally, in the 14th, Jerry Davis and Flannery hit consecutive singles, and Garry Templeton was walked intentionally. Pinch hitter Mario Ramirez ended the game with a single to right field.

Padre notes

Cub shortstop Larry Bowa has complained about a lack of playing time this spring but played 13 innings Tuesday. . . . The Padres drew 53,167 fans in 12 exhibition games here, breaking a previous record that was set in 16 games. . . . The Padres play the Angels at 1:05 p.m. today in Palm Springs. It’ll be Andy Hawkins against Craig Swan. . . . The Padres expect 40,000 for their game against San Diego State Friday night in San Diego. Admission is free. . . . Remember: The Padres were 13-17 last spring. . . . Media representatives voted outfielder Jerry Davis as the “Most Improved Player in Camp.” . . . For everyone who’s counting, the Padres defeated the Cubs in their three-game exhibition series, two games to one.