BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : ANGELS : Dubious Record for No. 3 Catcher

It’s hardly a distinction that Angel catcher Ron Tingley will brag about, but he is the only player in the major leagues, among those who opened the season on an active roster, who does not have a hit this season.

Tingley shared the distinction with San Francisco Giant catcher Steve Decker, but once Decker was optioned to triple-A Phoenix this week, Tingley won by default. The question now is, when will Tingley get his hit. Or for that matter, even make a plate appearance.

Tingley, the Angels’ No. 3 catcher, has appeared in four games, but has yet to even step into the on-deck circle.

Said Tingley: “I feel like calling the American Embassy, and saying, ‘Let me out, I’ve been held hostage long enough.’

“It’s been tough sitting. I’m happy to be here and all, but I don’t feel like I’m part of the club sometimes.”

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Chuck Finley’s next start will be pushed back to Tuesday at Seattle, allowing Julio Valera to start Sunday and let Finley avoid the family hubbub that always seems to distract him in Texas. Finley, who always has numerous relatives visiting him from Louisiana when the Angels play in Texas, does not pitch well in Arlington. He is 2-4 with a 5.77 ERA in Texas, but is 9-3 with a 2.11 ERA against Seattle.

Angel Manager Buck Rodgers deliberated before making the decision, particularly since Finley (3-4, 2.94 ERA) will have seven days between starts because Mark Langston is scheduled Monday.