BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : ANGELS : Gaetti Is Getting On-the-Job Training

Two games into his new career as a first baseman, Gary Gaetti has learned much about the nuances of playing the position.

Unable to catch third baseman Rene Gonzales’ throw on a bunt by Pat Kelly during the Yankees’ four-run rally in the fifth inning Sunday, Gaetti said he wasn’t properly positioned for the throw.

“I tried to get back to the base,” said Gaetti, a four-time Gold Glove winner at third who played first the last two games. “I’m not saying I shouldn’t have caught it, but it was sinking. I didn’t have my feet set real good. I can’t stretch much further than that.”

Hubie Brooks, idled since June 19 because of a neck strain and weakness in the nerves in his right shoulder, hopes to learn this week when he can begin throwing and hitting. Brooks continues to receive therapy four times a week at the Kerlan-Jobe Clinic.

“The nerve isn’t acting right and I’ve got to get the strength back in it,” said Brooks, who had surgery on a disk in his neck last September.

New York Yankee General Manager Gene Michael said he spoke to Whitey Herzog, Angel senior vice president, at Anaheim Stadium this weekend, but Michael declined to disclose the topics they discussed. However, he denied a report broadcast on a New York TV station claiming the Yankees are after Mark Langston. “We never talked about Langston,” Michael said.

Gordon Lakey, a special assignment for Toronto, was at Sunday’s game but left for Seattle Sunday night. The Blue Jays reportedly are still seeking a left-hander after their five-player offer for Jim Abbott was rejected by the Angels. Lakey’s departure seems contrary to reports the Blue Jays are interested in Tim Fortugno, who will make his major league debut tonight for the Angels.