Left-handed relief pitcher Mark Guthrie has not...

Left-handed relief pitcher Mark Guthrie has not started a game since April 16, 1994, when he was with the Minnesota Twins but he may end the Dodgers’ record 591 consecutive games without starting a left-handed pitcher.

Guthrie, after a stellar season in the Dodger bullpen, has asked to be considered for a spot in the starting rotation if he re-signs with the Dodgers.

Dodger Executive Vice President Fred Claire said, “Mark has indicated some interest in being a starter. We talked about that, and we told him he would have the opportunity to compete for a starting position.”

The Dodgers told Guthrie, who had a 2-3 record and a 2.22 earned-run average last season, that he probably would compete in spring training with Chan Ho Park for the fifth starting spot.

The Dodgers are counting on Ramon Martinez, Hideo Nomo, Ismael Valdes and Pedro Astacio as the first four starters and are hoping to trade knuckleballer Tom Candiotti.

The last time the Dodgers started a left-hander was Sept. 24, 1992, when Bobby Ojeda pitched against the Cincinnati Reds.

The Dodgers are also continuing to pursue a third baseman, and Claire acknowledged he is interested in free agent Todd Zeile.