Hot-hitting All-Star second baseman Ryne Sandberg is gaining a reputation for being a precocious pyromaniac in the Cubs` locker room. Sandberg is the acknowledged ”hot foot” prankster on the club. He has lit matches under the feet of numerous unsuspecting teammates. Tuesday night, the generally quiet and unassuming Sandberg made sure assistant trainer Dick Cummings was ”fired up” before the game.
Sandberg, in only his sixth full major-league season, needs one hit to reach 1,000 in his career. Bobby Dernier needs three steals for a career total of 200. Keith Moreland needs 20 hits for 1,000.
Shortstop Shawon Dunston, on the disabled list with a broken finger since June 16, said he will be allowed to start taking batting practice on Aug. 13.
Third baseman Wade Rowdon socked his 16th homer to lead Triple-A Iowa (51-58) to a 12-2 shellacking of Indianapolis Tuesday night. Rowdon had three RBIs to run his season total to 85. Darrin Jackson added three hits.
Double-A Pittsfield won its 11th straight by beating Williamsport 7-1. They lead second-place Reading by 8 1/2 games. Mark Grace, who suffered a sprained ankle Monday night, will miss seven games.
