Dodgers Can’t Beat Candelaria, So He Joins Them as a Reliever

The Dodgers hope they moved closer to solving their left-handed relief problem Monday when veteran John Candelaria, who pitched a no-hitter against them 15 years ago, accepted an invitation to spring training.

Candelaria, 37, must make the team before receiving a contract. He impressed the Dodgers in a recent tryout, and he comes recommended by Manager Tom Lasorda. But Candelaria is coming off an inconsistent season.

He began 1990 by going 7-3 with a 3.39 earned-run average in 34 games for Minnesota. After being traded to Toronto in time for its pennant stretch, he went 0-3 with a 5.48 ERA in 13 games. In 21 1/3 innings for the Blue Jays, he allowed 32 hits.

“There are several knowns about John,” said Fred Claire, Dodger vice president. “He throws strikes. He has a lot of experience. And he has always had a good record when it comes to getting out left-handed hitters.”

Candelaria pitched a no-hitter against the Dodgers on Aug. 9, 1976 in Pittsburgh. Overall he is 174-113 with a 3.29 ERA and 21 saves.