Angels Could Sign Nixon Today : Baseball: Agent says team has first shot at the speedy outfielder, but price is more than $8 million.

The Angels have made no secret of their desire to sign free-agent outfielder Otis Nixon, and they can make that wish come true today.

After two rounds of talks with the Angels and the Atlanta Braves, Nixon’s agent, Joe Sroba, said: “California has got the shot to end it right now” by agreeing to a two-year contract with a third year at Nixon’s option. The potential value of the deal exceeds $8 million, at least $500,000 more than the second offer the Braves made to retain him.

Nixon earned $585,000 last season.

Because Senior Vice President Whitey Herzog left the baseball meetings for his suburban St. Louis home Wednesday, two hours before the rest of the Angels’ delegation returned to California, the Angels were unable to make a decision. Sroba said he is planning to get the Angels’ answer today from Senior Vice President Dan O’Brien.

“If the Angels respond (affirmatively), I’m not going to offer him to Atlanta,” Sroba said.

Nixon, 32, has 18 days left on a 60-day suspension imposed after he tested positive for drug use. He missed the final weeks of the Braves’ National League West title drive, as well as the playoffs and the World Series. He will be eligible to participate in spring training exercises but not in full exhibition games; however, he will be permitted to sign a minor league contract until his suspension ends.

The Angels have projected Nixon as their center fielder and leadoff hitter, an addition that would provide a major infusion of speed into a slow-footed lineup. In 124 games last season, Nixon stole 72 bases, more than two American League clubs and only 22 fewer than the Angels. He hit .297, raising his career batting average to .246.

Nixon would be subject to random drug testing with either the Angels or the Braves. He would also stand to forfeit some of his salary if he tested positive for drug use again.