Dodgers Get No Bites on Strawberry’s Waivers

Darryl Strawberry cleared special waivers Tuesday without being claimed during the 72-hour period and is expected to remain with the Dodgers for the time being.

The Dodgers, by securing waivers, have seven days to attempt one of several roster moves with Strawberry, but Fred Claire, Dodger vice president, said he doesn’t expect any developments in that time.

Although not confirming Strawberry was on waivers, Claire suggested the move was done in hopes another club would claim the outfielder for $20,000, plus the $8 million still owed in the final two years of his contract.

“If you’re asking, ‘Are you trying to move Darryl?’ the answer is that we’ve explored several avenues,” Claire said. “That’s not the world’s best-kept secret.

“We feel it’s in Darryl’s best interest and the club’s best interest (to move him). There’s been a lot of controversy, and while injuries have been a factor, the matchup with the Dodgers hasn’t worked to the extent we both hoped it would. Therefore, you look at other options.”

As a veteran of more than five major league seasons, Strawberry could reject a minor league assignment under special waivers or opt for free agency, an unlikely choice because his contract would be voided.

The Dodgers also could release him, but it appears they are hoping to get out of the contract first. The Dodgers would have to honor the contract if Strawberry is released.

“At this time he’s still a member of the ballclub and we expect him to continue to do what he needs to do to prepare for spring training. That’s important,” Claire said. “I can still foresee a scenario in which he becomes a productive player.”

Claire said he had candid talks with Strawberry and his agent, Eric Goldschmidt, on Monday. Goldschmidt did not return messages Tuesday.