BASEBALL DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : Keeping an Eye on the Other Guys

The Dodgers were surprised and a bit upset by both off-field developments involving the Atlanta Braves Sunday.

When they learned that Cincinnati pitcher Norm Charlton had opted to take his one-week suspension during the final week of the season, meaning he will not face the Braves during the next three days, they questioned the National League’s suspension process.

When they learned that the Braves had acquired catcher Damon Berryhill and pitcher Mike Bielecki, they were stunned that the Braves would be so bold as to make a trade so late in the season.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a team make a deal at this time of the year,� Manager Tom Lasorda said. “But hey, if they think it’s going to help them. They are both good players.�

When the Braves acquired reliever Alejandro Pena earlier this month, the Dodgers countered by acquiring Steve Wilson. But Sunday, Dodger Vice President Fred Claire said he has no other trade in the works.

“At this point of the season, I just don’t think it would be practical,� Claire said.

When asked whether he regretted not trading for a shortstop earlier this month, Claire said, “Well, Alfredo Griffin was healthy earlier this month. You can’t always predict these things.�

Claire said he didn’t like the idea that the Reds’ Charlton could choose his time of suspension by conveniently dropping his appeal so he could serve the suspension during the last week of the season.

“I dislike the way the system works, where a player pretty much dictates the time he takes his suspension, especially if it occurs during a critical time,� Claire said.

Jay Howell threw curveballs Sunday for the first time since his last game Sept. 3, and said he hoped to be ready for some sort of action this weekend. The Dodgers would like to see him in a game before deciding whether to include him on the postseason 25-man roster. . . . Griffin’s sprained knee is still bothering him enough that he is not expected to attempt to play before this weekend in San Francisco. . . . Mickey Hatcher will be honored before Tuesday’s game against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium.