Young Is Slowed by Stiffness in Back

Recurring back stiffness has slowed Dodger second baseman Eric Young, who is among the keys to Manager Davey Johnson’s plans.

The speedy leadoff batter missed 45 games last season because of a recurring right quadriceps strain and a broken right foot, and Young had hoped to test himself in spring training. But his back is not cooperating.

“I wouldn’t say that it’s bothering me [a lot], it’s just something that we had to take a look at,” Young said after completing his daily workout at Dodgertown in Vero Beach, Fla. “It’s not like there’s a lot of pain. I can field, hit, run, really everything.

“But it stiffens up a little bit when I’m done. That’s the problem.”

The six-year veteran said this is the first time he has experienced back pain. Young underwent an MRI exam Monday, and trainer Charlie Strasser said the results were negative.

That is the most encouraging news Young has received in some time.

“You’re always concerned when you’re not feeling right,” said Young, who is listed as day to day. “[The MRI] definitely removed any doubt in my mind about anything serious. It’s just a lingering thing.”

Despite his problems last season, Young finished third in the National League with 42 stolen bases. Johnson is counting on Young to play every day and continue to stir things at the top of the lineup.

But his leadoff batter has yet to play in an exhibition game. So how far behind is he?

“There are a lot of games and innings still to play,” Johnson said. “He’ll get enough work in and be ready.”

Young is as confident as his manager.

“[Team physician Frank] Jobe told me not to expect this to go away overnight,” Young said. “It’s going to take a little while.”

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Reserve outfielder Todd Hollandsworth filled in at first base Wednesday in the Dodgers’ 6-5 loss to the Kansas City Royals at Baseball City, Fla., playing the position for the first time in the major leagues.

“Not since the seventh grade,” Hollandsworth replied, when asked if he had ever played first. “Somebody was hurt that day, or we had a surplus outfielder, or something like that.”

Hollandsworth, who singled in four at-bats, fielded all his chances cleanly. But Hollandsworth, who is expected to be the fourth outfielder, said to not expect to see him at first regularly.

“No way,” he said. “I don’t mind helping out, but let’s just say I’ve been in the outfield too long.”

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Left-hander Carlos Perez started and pitched four strong innings, giving up three hits and two runs--one earned. Perez struck out four without a walk. . . . Fifth starter Darren Dreifort continued to struggle with his control, giving up five hits--including two home runs--and three runs in three innings. Dreifort walked one without a strikeout. “He had real good velocity: 93, 94, 95 [mph],” pitching coach Charlie Hough said. “He’s a power guy who’s just having trouble with his control.” . . . Outfielder Raul Mondesi hit a three-run home run, his second homer in Grapefruit League play. . . . Catcher Todd Hundley, the designated hitter Wednesday, went hitless in four at-bats with a run. Hundley, expected to start catching in games this weekend, is one for eight.