Padres to Wait and See Before Offering Garvey a Big-Money Contract

In preliminary talks, the Padres have told first baseman Steve Garvey that they are not prepared to simply offer him a “big-money contract,” but would be willing to invite him to the 1988 spring training camp on a make-good basis.

At Padre President Charles (Chub) Feeney’s request, he and Garvey met Monday for the first time. Garvey, in the final year of a five-year, $1.45-million-per-year contract, is out for the season after May 30 biceps tendon surgery on his left shoulder. Feeney was named Padre president June 10.

“I asked Steve what his plans were, and he said he’d like to play again,” Feeney said. “But he won’t have played for a year. I have no doubt he’ll be ready, but until I see him play, I’m not ready to sign him to a big-money contract.

“I told him he could come to spring training and see what happens. We have to see him play.”

Feeney said he would evaluate the situation again in early September. Garvey said he’s looking forward to the September meeting.

“It’s their organizational policy not to wait until they are through with the season to make these kinds of decisions,” Garvey said. “Under the circumstances, it’s justified. By then, doctors can better tell management of my progress. I know I can play again. My rehabilitation is coming along ahead of schedule. Hopefully, we can show them something.

“I want to get together with them around the first of September and see where we stand. I want to play here. I want to get back and help the club any way I can.”

Feeney said he called the meeting because he was unsure of Garvey’s situation.

“I didn’t know if he wanted to retire--he said he didn’t,” Feeney said. “Steve has been a great player, and a great asset to San Diego. But he’s also obviously been well-paid for his services.”

Garvey, who will be 39 by Opening Day 1988, was at San Diego Jack Murphy Stadium before Wednesday night’s game against the Cubs.

“The shoulder still aches from time to time, but not nearly as it did a few weeks ago,” he said. “I’m still working on my range of motion, with non-stress kind of exercises. After an hour a day with my therapist, I’m sweating, whipped, pinned.”

Garvey, whose locker beneath the stadium is roped off as if it were a monument, attends home games only “every third or fourth” game.

“It’s a psychological thing,” he said. “You can ask any player who has been on an extended disabled list about it. I don’t feel I can help anybody, and it’s hard to watch. I come early, do my thing and get out of the way.”