BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : Astacio Cleared After Heart Tests

Right-hander Pedro Astacio was cleared to pitch Thursday after undergoing tests this week because of a heart murmur. Team physician Michael Mellman said that he detected the murmur in Astacio during his routine physical at Dodgertown, Feb. 24 and 25.

“In retrospect, it was an innocent finding,” Mellman said.

Astacio is expected to begin throwing again on Monday--with the only holdup being a sore groin caused by one of the tests.

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Second baseman Delino DeShields, who suffered a broken left cheekbone Wednesday when he was hit by a bat, returned to the clubhouse and is expected to resume workouts today. DeShields had no swelling but said his face was sore. He can begin playing in games once he gets a protective mask, which should take about a week.

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With winds blowing near 35 m.p.h., Todd Worrell was hit hard in an intrasquad game Thursday, giving up a three-run home run to Tim Wallach, a two-run homer to Mike Piazza and a single and double to Eric Karros. Worrell said he felt fine, but said he was battling the wind. “I didn’t really get anything out of it,” Worrell said. “The wind was blowing so hard.” Worrell gave up six runs, five hits and three walks in two innings. . . . It was 43 degrees with the wind-chill factor. . . . In DeShields’ absence, Mike Sharperson, who is trying to make the team, started at second base for the regulars. . . . Kevin Gross, who is recovering from mild tendinitis in his right shoulder, threw to hitters for the first time this spring. He reported no discomfort and plans to pitch two innings in Tuesday’s game. . . . The Dodgers open their exhibition season today with a game against the New York Mets at Port St. Lucie. . . . Former General Manager Al Campanis is visiting Dodgertown.