Evans Talks to Park’s Agent

Clarifying his position, Dodger General Manager Dan Evans said Monday he spoke with agent Scott Boras about free-agent pitcher Chan Ho Park.

Evans, who declined comment Sunday, said it took him awhile to return a message left by Boras shortly after the World Series because he has been busy completing his management team.

Sources said Park is no longer in the Dodgers’ plans, but Evans stressed he is still strongly considering re-signing the all-star right-hander. Evans said his failure to return Boras’ call promptly should not be misconstrued.

“It was one phone call,” he said. “I just had other priorities I had to address. There were staff issues, and there were a lot of things going on here the last 10 days. We had a very lengthy conversation [Monday], and we discussed a variety of issues.”

Boras said he was encouraged by his conversation with Evans.

“It was a good beginning conversation,” Boras said, “to start to understand the new Dodger regime’s philosophy, and gain clarity as to their interest in Chan Ho.”

The Toronto Blue Jays have informed the Dodgers that closer Billy Koch is available, baseball sources said.

Koch, who turns 27 on Dec. 14, was only 2-5 with a 4.80 earned-run average in 2001, but had 36 saves in 69 appearances.

The right-hander, whose fastball has been clocked consistently in the high 90s, has had at least 31 saves in each of his three seasons. Last season, Koch was 9-3 with 33 saves and a 2.63 ERA in 68 games.

The Blue Jays are seeking a young starting pitcher or third baseman for Koch, under contract for $2.35 million next season. The Dodgers recently bought out the final season of closer Jeff Shaw’s contract.