Cutting Down Opponent Steals Is a Priority

Like a homeowner who installs a security system, the Dodgers are taking measures to deter thieves.

Opponents stole bases with embarrassing ease last season. So from the first day of spring training, coaches have emphasized to pitchers the importance of holding runners close.

The Dodgers threw out only 28 of 158 base stealers last season, and the 130 stolen bases were the most given up by any team.

“Our first day here they told us about the percentage and how bad it was,” pitcher D.J. Houlton said. “They said that good runners will get their stolen bases sometimes, but we want to throw out the average base stealer every time.”

Daily workouts include a station where pitchers practice pickoff moves. Coaches are talking to them about varying the time they stay in the stretch position and employing slide steps to quicken their deliveries.

“This is an area where we have to get better,” Manager Grady Little said.

*

Oscar Robles is going to play for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic because he is a man of his word.

Even if it jeopardizes his chances of making the Dodger roster.

“I said yes three months ago,” he said. “They are counting on me. They said I’ll be in the lineup.”

Robles was a bright spot in the Dodger debacle last season, batting .272 in 364 at-bats as a rookie while filling in ably at third base and shortstop. But General Manager Ned Colletti created competition for the utility infield spot, bringing in veteran Ramon Martinez to battle Robles and rookie Willy Aybar.

Martinez, who played in San Francisco when Colletti was in the Giant front office, will not play for the Puerto Rican team despite being on the preliminary roster.

“I’ll help my country, then try to win a job,” said Robles, who played for Mexico in the Caribbean Series two weeks ago and in the Mexican League for five years before the Dodgers purchased his contract last May.

“It’s tough because there is competition here, but I said I’d go, so I’ve got to go.”

*

Delwyn Young has proven he can hit, batting .302 in four minor league seasons, including .325 in triple A last year. All he needs a position.

He has played second base all along, but the Dodgers don’t believe he is mobile enough to remain there. So Young spent the off-season learning to play the outfield, even coming to Dodgertown for instructional league in the fall.

Like several of the team’s top prospects, Young is brimming with confidence.

“The outfield is easy,” he said. “It’s like shagging balls [during batting practice].”

*

All position players are expected today except J.D. Drew, whose wife is expecting their first child any day.... Outfielders Jose Cruz Jr. and Ricky Ledee said they would play for Puerto Rico in the WBC.... Little gave first baseman Nomar Garciaparra the day off. Garciaparra reported last week with pitchers and catchers.... Shortstop Rafael Furcal, who is recovering from minor knee surgery, hit off a tee for the first time.... The Dodgers announced that they have agreed to contract terms with every player in camp.