Brown Not Planning Any Role Changes

The Dodgers began workouts Friday at Dodgertown in Vero Beach, Fla., and pitcher Kevin Brown was, as expected, the center of attention.

He was swarmed by spectators eager to meet the all-star right-hander, who signed a seven-year, $105-million contract in December. Brown hasn’t enjoyed the attention that goes with being the highest-paid player in the game, and said spring training provides a refuge.

“It feels like I didn’t have much of an off-season,” he said after throwing off the mound for about 10 minutes with the other projected members of the rotation. “But it always feels good to get back to spring training and toss the ball around.”

Brown helped lead the Florida Marlins to the 1997 World Series championship, and was among the reasons the San Diego Padres won the National League pennant last season. Much has been made about his positive effect on other pitchers, but he downplayed his potential impact on the talented Dodger staff.

“My role hasn’t changed for as long as I’ve been pitching,” he said. “It’s always just to go out every fifth day and do the best I can. I’m not coming into this clubhouse and telling anyone how to pitch.

“Hopefully, guys will keep their ears and eyes open and we’ll all learn from each other. I learn from other guys, and that’s the way it should be.”

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After declining to speak with reporters Thursday, reserve outfielder Todd Hollandsworth said he is no longer requesting to be traded. Sort of.

Hollandsworth said he won’t cause problems for the club in spring training, although he is displeased about being demoted. He added that he will wait and see how things develop, but said, “I don’t intend to be a fourth outfielder for the rest of my career. That is not acceptable.”

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Free-agent pitcher Ramon Martinez remains in his native Dominican Republic, rehabilitating after undergoing season-ending surgery on his throwing shoulder June 30. The Dodgers are interested in re-signing him once he’s ready to pitch, although his asking price might be too high.