Although Montreal catcher Jeff Reed tied a major league record with three errors in one inning Tuesday and catching is one of Expos` weak spots, manager Buck Rodgers is not ready to make a trade.
”I think it would be unwise at this time of year, in terms of consistency, to think about making a catching change unless it`s due to an injury.”
Shortstop Shawon Dunston, on the disabled list with a broken finger, took infield practice before Wednesday`s game.
First baseman Leon Durham says he is unruffled by trade talks and rumors involving his name.
”Knowing that another ballclub out there is interested in your ability makes me feel blessed,” he said. ”I could be gone tonight, as far as I know. But my main concern is to show the scouts in the stands and my teammates and the coaches what I`m capable of doing. I came here from a great organization, St. Louis. They taught you how to win there.”
Montreal left-hander Neal Heaton (11-4), scheduled to start Thursday against the Bob Tewksbury (0-2), and first baseman Andres Galarraga were left off the All-Star squad despite impressive midseason statistics.
”We felt that Heaton and Galarraga certainly deserved to be on the All-Star team,” said Rodgers.
Comedian Tom Dreesen, a native of Harvey and a lifelong Cub fan, has been the team`s honorary batboy this week.
In the 35 games he has been the Cubs` leadoff man, David Martinez reached safely in 30 and hit safely in 28.
Newly inducted Hall of Famer Billy Williams was back in uniform Wednesday as the Cubs` bench coach.
Probables for the Phillies series here: Friday, Jamie Moyer (9-7) vs. Kevin Gross (6-9); Saturday, Les Lancaster (2-1) vs. Tom Hume (1-2); Sunday, Rick Sutcliffe (15-4) vs. Shane Rawley (13-5).
