New Contract Means Karros Can Forget Trade Rumors

Eric Karros is still standing after all these years, defying odds and the plans of some Dodger officials.

The longtime first baseman seemingly has been on his way out since he arrived, withstanding challenges from hotshot prospects and trade-minded executives.

Karros reported to Dodgertown on Tuesday after signing a three-year, $24-million contract that could become a four-year, $32-million deal with an option year.

The package includes a two-year no-trade clause, giving Karros peace of mind as full-squad workouts begin today. Karros said he finally feels appreciated.

“I don’t know if I’d call it an upset,” Karros said of his still being a Dodger. “It has been more perseverance than anything. It’s something that I’ve wanted. I wanted to stay a Dodger and I’ve been fortunate I still have the opportunity to play here.”

Karros wouldn’t have had the opportunity if Bob Daly, managing general partner, had not wanted him to remain. Bob Graziano, team president, also rejected trade proposals involving Karros last season.

“I’ve played with some guys who have come and gone through this organization,” Karros said. “There’s no question, the last few years, if people would have tried to figure who would be the one to go, I’m sure my name was at the top of everybody’s list. But I’m still here.”

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Karros and new right fielder Shawn Green traveled to Dodgertown together Monday, taking a red-eye flight from LAX and driving from Orlando.

Dodger legend Sandy Koufax was among the first people Green met.

“Getting a chance to meet Sandy Koufax the first day, that’s a good start,” said Green, acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays in a four-player trade Nov. 8. “[Meeting Koufax] was right up there [with meeting Hall-of-Famer Ted Williams at last season’s All-Star game]. They’re such legends, I honestly don’t know how to be in front of them.

“You know, I was a little nervous. But Sandy, ah, Mr. Koufax, is very down to earth. He’s real easy to talk to.”

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Construction at Dodger Stadium is on schedule and work will be completed before the home opener against the Cincinnati Reds on April 14.

“We’re comfortable we’re going to have enough lead time to go through [the stadium] and make sure everything is in good shape,” Graziano said. “We’re having some inclement weather now, but most of the work that remains is being done indoors, so it’s a good time for inclement weather.”

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Manager Davey Johnson was among 500 guests at Gary Sheffield’s wedding Feb. 5.

“It was incredible,” Johnson said. “I don’t know if we [Johnson and his wife, Susan] were invited or not, but we crashed the party. I was dancing in the aisles, I’ll tell you.”

Said Sheffield, “Davey is crazy.”