BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : Martinez Gets First Exhibition Victory

Ramon Martinez eased the Dodgers’ fears about his right arm by giving up only two runs in six innings during a 9-2 exhibition victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Friday.

While gaining his first exhibition victory, Martinez relied mostly on his curveball and changeup to retire 12 of the final 14 after giving up two runs in the first two innings.

“During the course of the game he found his rhythm, started changing speeds, keeping the hitters off stride,” pitching coach Ron Perranoski said. “That’s what we’ve been waiting for. That’s what he’s got to do.”

Martinez is still struggling with his control; he walked four and struck out three, giving him 16 walks and seven strikeouts this spring.

“I think I made adjustments and pitched the way I used to pitch,” Martinez said. “My arm feels great--I’m sure I’m going to have a great season. I’ve got a lot of confidence.”

Martinez will make one more start before opening day, April 6.

Jeff Hamilton accepted the Dodgers’ demotion to triple-A Albuquerque because to ensure his $495,000 salary, he didn’t have a choice.

“I’m not banking on coming back to the big leagues,” Hamilton said.

Greg Smith, another infielder without options, also cleared waivers; it is doubtful he will remain in the organization. If he leaves, the Dodgers will have gotten virtually nothing for prospect Jose Vizcaino, who was traded to the Chicago Cubs for Smith in late 1990.

Darryl Strawberry says he has given up smoking and chewing tobacco. . . . Dodger infielders went through a simulated game early Friday, then the regulars committed no errors against the Cincinnati Reds. The team has 35 errors in 22 games.