Glaus Will Start Season in Double A

Troy Glaus, the Angels’ top draft pick a year ago and a training camp phenom, will open the season at double-A Midland.

“There’s no reason we can’t move him up,” minor league director Jeff Parker said. “We don’t have a set timetable for him.”

Glaus, starting his first professional season, hit .423 in spring training, with four home runs and 11 RBIs in 26 at-bats. With continued progress, the Angels believe Glaus could jump to triple-A Vancouver this summer and replace Dave Hollins at third base as early as next season.

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Anaheim taxpayers contributed $30 million toward the renovation of Edison International Field, but they are virtually the only Orange County residents unable to take advantage of an Edison ticket discount program.

As part of its sponsorship of the Angels, the utility company extends a $2 discount to its customers for all Thursday home games. Simply by presenting an Edison bill, fans can buy up to six upper-level tickets for $6.50 each instead of $8.50.

But Anaheim operates its own utilities.

Bret Colson, Anaheim’s public information manager, said residents save about 20% over Edison rates by receiving utility service directly from the city.

“We’re giving you savings whether or not you buy a ticket,” Colson said. “If you’re an Anaheim municipal electric customer, you will more than make up the $2 you would save.”

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Chuck Finley faces Ramon Martinez in the Freeway Series--and Edison Field--opener tonight at 7. Several thousand tickets remained on sale late Thursday. . . . The series then moves to Dodger Stadium, with Ken Hill opposing Hideo Nomo on Saturday and Jack McDowell facing Darren Dreifort on Sunday. The Angels conclude the exhibition season Monday at Cal State Fullerton, with Allen Watson scheduled to pitch.