Worrell Won’t Be Going Anywhere

Relief pitcher Todd Worrell, who saved a franchise-record 44 games last season, has been told that the Dodgers will exercise the option on his $3.75-million contract for next season.

The announcement will be made later this week, but Fred Claire, Dodger executive vice president, advised Worrell’s agent, Richie Bry, of the Dodgers’ decision. Otherwise, the Dodgers would have had to pay Worrell a $400,000 buyout fee, permitting him to become a free agent.

Starting pitchers Ramon Martinez, Hideo Nomo and Tom Candiotti also are under contract for next season.

In other news, Phil Regan became the team’s advance scout, replacing Jerry Terrell. Regan managed the Dodgers’ triple-A Albuquerque team last season but did not want to return as a minor league manager.

Glenn Hoffman, the field coordinator for the minor league system, will replace Regan at Albuquerque. Ron Roenicke replaces John Shelby at double-A San Antonio. Shelby was demoted to Class A Savannah of the South Atlanta League. John Shoemaker was promoted to Class A Vero Beach from Savannah.

Returning to manage their same affiliates are Del Crandall of Class A San Bernardino, Joe Vavra at Class A Yakima, Mickey Hatcher at Rookie League Great Falls, Teddy Martinez of Class A Santo Domingo and Antonio Bautista of Class A La Romana.

The most significant addition to the minor league coaching staffs was the hiring of former all-star catcher Lance Parrish at San Antonio.