BASEBALL DAILY REPORT : ANGELS : Padres Rain Runs on Curtis’ Parade

Chad Curtis’ expression was somber, giving no hint he had won a job as the Angels’ fourth outfielder.

“I hate losing, and it was 14-0 today,” said Curtis, whose seventh-inning double Tuesday spared the Angels the indignity of being no-hit by the Padres. “So I’m not smiling.”

Curtis’ approach to the game is serious. When Manager Buck Rodgers told him he had made the team, Curtis thanked Rodgers politely and went back to work.

“I’m happy, but I’m not satisfied,” said Curtis, who is hitting .276 with a team-high eight stolen bases. “It’s been a goal of mine for a long time to play in the big leagues, but I don’t just want to sit there. I’m happy, but not satisfied. I’m looking forward to getting in on an everyday basis.”

Although Curtis was unable to beat out Junior Felix for the starting job in center field, his speed and versatility gave him an edge over Jose Gonzalez for the fourth outfield spot. Gonzalez and left-handed pitchers Tim Fortugno and Cliff Young were sent to the Angels’ minor league camp. Rodgers said John Morris probably will be a reserve outfielder.

Curtis plans to make the most of every opportunity. “I’d rather sit here than start in Edmonton,” said Curtis, who hit .316 for the Trappers last season. “I’m closer here. I think I’ll get an ample amount of playing time, and in that time I’ll be able to prove my value to the team.”

Chuck Finley pitched five respectable innings Tuesday, walking three but recording no strikeouts. Only one of two runs he gave up was earned. . . . The Angels committed five errors--three by Luis Sojo after he shifted from third base to second. Scott Lewis failed to retire any of the nine batters he faced.

Dan O’Brien, Angel senior vice president, said club executives would discuss players put on waivers Tuesday by other clubs “but not at any great length because we’ve already discussed most of the people there, and we really didn’t get too excited about anyone.” . . . Tuesday’s moves left the Angels with 28 players in Palm Springs. Fortugno (6.52 ERA in 9 2/3 innings) and Young (7.36 in 11 innings) struggled most of the spring.