No-Hit, No-Field Isn’t Working for the Dodgers

Bill Clinton should tell the low-scoring Dodgers that “base closings” don’t include first base, second base. . . .

STAN KAPLAN

Garden Grove

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With so much talent in such a weak division, it has taken a monumental effort by Dodger management to muck up the works.

Fred Claire was fleeced by Montreal when they unloaded no-hit Delino DeShields and no-field Roberto Kelly for (gulp) Pedro Martinez, Henry Rodriguez, etc. Then Claire trades slick-fielding Rafael Bournigal to Montreal and welcomes back the moody, erratic Jose Offerman, who would have to bat .500 to overcome his defensive shortcomings.

Tom Lasorda opts for Tim Wallach while letting a much better hitter, Dave Hanson, languish on the bench, and in left field, Lasorda should platoon Billy Ashley with Chris Gwynn, who not only catches fly balls but will hit 20 homers and bat .300 if ever given the chance.

SKIP USEN

Los Angeles

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I do not know why people think the booing of Jose Offerman at Dodger Stadium is unjustified. Dodger fans, some of the most gracious in major league baseball, just expect Offerman to play solid, take-charge defense and keep his head in the game.

Offerman’s statement, “I could hit .400 and not make an error for a season, and it still wouldn’t be good enough” shows that he does not get it.

Jose, I couldn’t care less if you hit .400. You lead the league in errors and costly mistakes. That’s why you get booed.

WILLIAM LEE

Granada Hills