Dodgers Offer Butler $3.5 Million for 1 Year : Baseball: Hershiser’s quest for new team will begin in Cleveland.

The day Orel Hershiser began a job search as a former Dodger, the club told center fielder Brett Butler they needed him more than ever, offering him a one-year, $3.5-million deal.

“We want him back very much, and obviously this shows our commitment to him,” Fred Claire, Dodger executive vice president, said of Butler. “If he calls this weekend and says, ‘I’m a Dodger,’ it would make me real happy.”

Butler, 37, said he has no plans to make a quick decision. He’ll continue to explore the free-agent market, although he is expected to return to the Dodgers. If Butler were to sign with another team, the Dodgers would receive two draft choices as compensation.

“He gives you so much that chronological age doesn’t catch up the same way to Brett,” Claire said. “He has the total package.”

Said Butler: “I figured they’d want me back, because of what I can still do. Of course, it’s nice hearing they feel the same way, too.”

Hershiser, who was told Thursday the Dodgers would not offer him a new contract, will start looking for a new club next week in Cleveland.

Hershiser is scheduled to meet with Cleveland Indian officials to discuss a contract offer, according to Bob Fraley, Hershiser’s agent.

Hershiser has had contract negotiations with at least two other teams, Fraley said.

Hershiser, 36, said he has no plans to retire.

“I’ve got a fire in my belly to pitch,” he said Friday. “I really believe I’m going to pitch for as long as I think I can compete, and compete at a high level. And I still think I’m at that level.

“When baseball is done with me, I think I’ll know. That door will slam shut very hard.”

Hershiser, the 1988 Cy Young winner and most valuable player in the World Series, says it probably won’t hit him until spring training that his 16-year Dodger tenure is over.

“It will be different to look down at my chest and not see that name,” he said. “I was born and raised a Dodger, and I’ve grown up that way.

“But every professional athlete prepares himself for the day when that label may change, or he may have to retire.”