Nagy Expected to Pitch in Opener

Charles Nagy, who was pounded by the New York Yankees in three regular season starts and lasted only 3 2/3 innings as the Game 3 starter in the division series, has fared much better against the Baltimore Orioles and is expected to pitch Wednesday’s opener of the league championship series for the Cleveland Indians on three days rest.

Nagy, who was 15-11 during the regular season, has a 9-5 career record against the Orioles and was 2-1 this year, giving up only six earned runs in 20 2/3 innings.

He was 1-1 in Camden Yards with a 1.98 earned-run average this year and is 3-3 with a 3.68 ERA in his career there.

Oriole Manager Davey Johnson has named Scott Erickson to pitch Game 1 in the and projected Jimmy Key and Mike Mussina as his Games 2 and 3 starters.

For the Indians, Chad Ogea will probably start Game 2, with Orel Hershiser pitching Game 3, and Jaret Wright starting Game 4.

Hershiser undoubtedly insured his 1998 employment with his tenacious effort in Game 4.

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Cecil Fielder, one for 8 in his two starts as the Yankee designated hitter, was replaced by Mike Stanley in Game 5 and probably ended his Yankee career on the bench. It is unlikely that George Steinbrenner will pay $7 million again to re-sign the 34-year-old Fielder, who hit only 13 homers in 361 at bats.

New York reporters have speculated that Fielder could be headed for the Angels, who would be forced to play him at first base if they move to the DH-less National League. That and the price casts doubt on the possibility.

The Yankees are also not expected to pick up the $3-million option on Dwight Gooden, although they may attempt to renegotiate it at a lower figure. Gooden enhanced his market value with his strong start Sunday.

Wade Boggs, Tim Raines and Rey Sanchez are others who may have spent their last game with the Yankees.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

(Indians win series, 3-2) Game 1: New York 8, Cleveland 6

Game 2: Cleveland 7, New York 5

Game 3: New York 6, Cleveland 1

Game 4: Cleveland 3, New York 2

Game 5: Cleveland 4, New York 3