He's glad many veteran umpires have won reinstatement. Given all the contested ball and strike calls because of the new zone enforcement, Giants manager Dusty Baker welcomes the fact that nine umpires, including Sacramento's Gary Darling, had their jobs reinstated by an arbitrator's ruling Friday. I came into the league with two of them, Terry Tata and Frank Pulli, and I watched Darling come into the league. I hate for anybody to lose their jobs. I just wonder how long will it take for them to get in shape.
Spring training is as important for umpires as it is for players.
NBA star Chris Mullin apparently was less interested in the Kings-Lakers playoff than taking batting practice at Pacific Bell Park. Fellow St. John's alum Rich Aurilia visited with Mullin, a boyhood hero. The Giants' shortstop, in fact, went to college with Chris' brother, Terrence. The Giants catch a break by not facing new Mets ace Rick Reed this weekend. Ex-Giant Darryl Hamilton is expected to be activated by the Mets today after being out of action with a neck strain.