Tracy Says Gagne Isn’t Overworked

Jim Tracy trotted out some statistics to support his defense of the regularity with which he has used closer Eric Gagne this season.

Among the top 20 major league closers -- as defined by the top 10 closers in the American and National leagues in terms of saves -- Gagne ranked ninth in games (51) and sixth in innings (58) before the Dodgers played the Florida Marlins on Monday night at Dodger Stadium.

“So to suggest that Eric Gagne is being overworked or overused is somewhat of a fallacy,” Tracy said.

Gagne, who had 35 saves in 36 attempts before Monday, also is one of the most efficient closers, requiring an average of 14.7 pitches an inning. Only San Diego’s Trevor Hoffman (14.3 pitches), Cincinnati’s Danny Graves (13.2) and Atlanta’s John Smoltz (13.1) have been more efficient.

Tracy acknowledged that his use of Gagne had increased -- and would continue to increase -- as the Dodgers attempt to hold on to first place in the National League West.

“Yes, he has been used a little bit more,” Tracy said. “And he’ll continue to get some use in situations where we need him to win a game. We’re trying to win the Western Division.”

*

Hideo Nomo rebounded from a rocky first inning in which he gave up three hits and a run Monday to complete three solid innings in his first rehabilitation start with triple-A Las Vegas.

Nomo, recovering from inflammation in his right rotator cuff, gave up one hit over his last two innings against the Sacramento RiverCats, striking out the side in the third. The right-hander gave up four hits and one run, struck out five and walked none.

*

Milton Bradley snapped at a reporter who before the game asked about his troublesome right hamstring. “Obviously, I’m all right if my name is in the lineup,” said Bradley, who had jogged to first base on a hit Sunday after experiencing soreness in the area. “If you see me in the lineup, you don’t have to ask me about it. I don’t like talking about it.” ... Brad Penny said he was not disappointed that the nerve problem in his right arm would preclude him from pitching against Florida, his former team. “Nah,” said Penny, who was put on the disabled list Sunday. “I’ll face them soon enough.”