ANGELS : Smith Exceptional, Lachemann Says

Angel closer Lee Smith, who picked up his league-leading eighth save against the Chicago White Sox Friday night, has his quirks, such as his leisurely stroll from the bullpen to the mound and his penchant for clubhouse naps during games.

Manager Marcel Lachemann acknowledges that Smith often strays from the mainstream when it comes to work habits.

“There are certain things you make everyone do, but there are certain exceptions for some players,” Lachemann said.

What exceptions is Smith entitled to?

“Whatever he wants,” Lachemann said. “He does his work, he knows what he’s supposed to do. You don’t put up his numbers [major league-leading 442 career saves] without doing that.”

*

Mark Langston, who had a career 8-1 record and 2.01 earned-run average in Chicago against the White Sox, wasn’t nearly as overpowering Friday against the White Sox as he was against Kansas City Royals Sunday. But he was effective, giving up three runs on seven hits, walking three and striking out one.

Most impressive was the way he handled Chicago first baseman Frank Thomas, who had a career .452 average (14 for 34) and four home runs against Langston.

Thomas, who flew out in the first inning, came up with runners on first and second in the third and grounded out. First and second were occupied again in the fifth when Thomas flew to the warning track in center.

*

Tim Fortugno, a former Southern California College pitcher who played seven minor league seasons before making the Angels in 1992, pitched two scoreless innings of relief for the White Sox Friday night.

Fortugno was cut by Philadelphia in 1989 but kept pitching for the independent Reno Silver Sox for $500 a month. A Milwaukee scout spotted the left-hander that year and signed him for $2,500 and 12 dozen baseballs.

The White Sox claimed Fortugno off waivers in January. He has appeared in eight games, giving up only two earned runs in 10 1/3 innings.

*

Lachemann on what kind of impact the Walt Disney Co. could have on the Angels: “Who knows, maybe they’ll want a new manager. That could be their first decision.”