BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : Minor League Reliever Improves

The Dodgers’ top minor league reliever last season, right-hander Todd Williams, pitched well Thursday night in Albuquerque, an encouraging sign considering his elbow appeared destined for surgery during the spring.

Williams, who has a side-arm motion, suffered a torn ligament in his elbow in the Dominican Republic and did not pitch during the spring. The injury, which could still require surgery, appears to be healing with rest.

“That was one of the disappointments of spring training because Todd had thrown well enough in the Dominican to be on a major league pitching staff,” said Fred Claire, executive vice president. “He threw the ball well last night, and we will keep putting it to the test, but it is important if he has surgery to do it soon, so it does not impact next season.”

Williams, 23, had 21 saves during the 1993 season, tops in the organization.

*

The bruise on Barry Bonds’ right elbow could sideline him for a week, Giant Manager Dusty Baker said. Bonds was available to pinch-run Friday but was not allowed to take batting practice.

“When I got hit there, I was out for four days,” Baker said. “It’s hard when you get hit there, because you have ball hitting on the bone and there is nothing to absorb the shock. I’d rather have this happen now than later.”

*

Baker, asked if Brett Butler’s home run Thursday night gave credence to the juiced ball theory, said: “Butler’s good for two or three homers a year. Now, if he already had two or three, then I’d say the ball is juiced.” Butler had one home run last season. . . . Before Friday’s game, Dodger starters had pitched into the seventh inning only three times in the seven games on this trip, which has put a strain on the bullpen. Manager Tom Lasorda said that’s why he stayed with Ramon Martinez Thursday night, rather than removing him during the seventh inning when he started struggling. . . . Chan Ho Park will make his fourth start of the season tonight for double-A San Antonio. . . . For the record: Double-A Pitcher Nelson Castro was not released Thursday, as reported. Castro was designated for assignment, which means the Dodgers have 10 days to remove him from the 40-man roster via trade, release or by reassigning him to a club in their system if he clears waivers. . . . Left-handed pitcher Kevin Rogers, who has been experiencing circulatory problems in his left arm, was put on the 15-day disabled. Left-hander reliever Pat Gomez was promoted from triple-A. . . . Despite reports that the Giants are interested in Ron Gant, General Manager Bob Quinn said he will not fit into their financial plans. The Giants, with a payroll of more than $40 million, already are committed next season to five players for $21 million.