Valenzuela’s Negotiations Have a Shaky Beginning

The Dodgers’ negotiations with potential free-agent pitcher Fernando Valenzuela have gotten off to a worrisome start.

In last Tuesday’s initial meeting between the two parties, the Dodgers’ offer fell far short of Valenzuela’s demand, according to Valenzuela’s agent Tony DeMarco.

“I don’t think they are close to where we’re at,” DeMarco said Friday, quickly adding, “But we make no secret that Fernando wants to play here. We still think we can get things settled.”

Although neither party would disclose figures, the dividing issue appears to be a pay cut. Valenzuela, who made $1.85 million last season, will not accept less. He is thought to be seeking a three-year deal worth about $6 million, something other teams, including the New York Yankees, might be willing to pay.

The Dodgers are reportedly offering closer to $1 million a year. They reportedly will pursue Montreal pitcher Mark Langston if he becomes a free agent, and may also feel that rookies John Wetteland and Ramon Martinez have reduced Valenzuela’s importance to the rotation.

Valenzuela’s advisers point to the left-hander’s comeback from shoulder problems. Over his last 76 2/3 innings, Valenzuela had a 2.70 earned-run average. He finished the season with a 10-13 record and 3.43 ERA. However, he did not win a game for nearly a year because of his shoulder injury, and he has gone 15-21 over the last two seasons.

The Dodgers’ loyalty to Valenzuela, who has been with the team for 11 years, no longer appears to be a major issue.

“We realize Fernando’s importance to the community, but we have to do what we feel is best for us,” Claire said at season’s end.

Said DeMarco: “They have the right of first refusal, always. But we also know that there will be other important teams that are interested in him, teams that would welcome him.”

No other team can officially express interest unless Valenzuela declares himself a free agent, which must be done within 15 days after the end of the World Series. DeMarco, however, is confident of that interest.

“We know teams are there,” he said.

DeMarco said he will meet with Dodger officials after the Series.

In other news, Claire said Friday he was feeling upbeat about phone conversations with outfielders Kirk Gibson and Kal Daniels, both of whom are at their winter homes recovering from knee surgeries.