BASEBALL DAILY REPORT : ANGELS : Tartabull Hoping He Can Cash In, Too

Free-agent Danny Tartabull, who lists the Angels among the teams he’d consider playing for, said Tuesday he’s happy for Bobby Bonilla’s $29 million worth of good fortune--and optimistic about his chances of striking it rich.

Tartabull, 29, hit .316 for the Royals last season with 31 home runs and 100 runs batted in. His career batting average of .287 is four points higher than Bonilla’s and he is well ahead of Bonilla in home runs, 152-116, in fewer games. Tartabull also leads Bonilla in career RBIs, 535-526.

A Malibu resident, Tartabull said living in an area his family likes and playing for a team that has a chance to qualify for postseason play are his priorities in choosing a new team.

Tartabull’s agent is Dennis Gilbert, who negotiated the deal with the New York Mets that made Bonilla the highest-paid athlete in team sports. Gilbert said Tuesday the Angels hadn’t contacted him about Tartabull, “but I’m sure they will.” He said he had already begun arranging meetings to discuss Tartabull’s terms.

Those terms are sure to be expensive.

“When you look at my numbers and Bobby Bonilla’s numbers, you see that my numbers are far better,” Tartabull said. “Where the contract goes, I can’t tell you.” I can tell you what I’m going to bring ballclubs: Someone who’s going to consistently perform at a certain level. I take pride in being consistent.”