Lasorda Named All-Star Coach

Manager Tom Lasorda has been selected by Bobby Cox to coach in next month’s All-Star game in Philadelphia.

Cox, who led the Atlanta Braves to the 1995 World Series championship, is permitted to invite three of his own coaches and two National League managers. Lasorda is expected to be joined by Jim Riggleman of the Chicago Cubs.

“Tommy’s one of the best, he deserves to be there,� Cox said. “Besides, he’s one of my favorites. You’re talking about a guy who’s great for the game.�

Lasorda, who’s managing his 20th season, has managed four All-Star games and been a coach in five others. He last coached in the All-Star Game in 1993.

“I appreciate Bobby for asking me,� Lasorda said. “It’s a tremendous honor.�

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The Dodgers are strongly considering releasing veteran left-handed outfielder Milt Thompson, and he could be gone when shortstop Greg Gagne returns from his rehabilitative assignment in triple-A Albuquerque.

Thompson, 37, is well-liked by his teammates and coaching staff, but he is hitting .120 with one run batted in. Worse, he is two for 25 (.080) as a pinch-hitter.

The Dodgers instead would prefer to keep left-handed hitting Oreste Marrero, 26, who can play first base and the outfield.

Marrero, whose contract was purchased Saturday when he replaced injured Mike Busch, has spent all but 32 games of his 10-year career in the minors. He batted .210 for the Expos during his brief stay in 1993, but has not been to the big leagues since.

“It’s been a long, long process for me,� said Marrero, who thanked Fred Claire, Dodger executive vice president, for calling him up. “I’m very, very excited.

“What made it so special was that I called my father today and asked how he was going. He said: ‘Thank you. You gave me the greatest Father’s Day present.’ I feel very happy I came up on this day.�

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Starter Hideo Nomo said his strained right calf, which forced him to leave Saturday’s game in the seventh inning, was feeling better. He pitched on the side Sunday and hopes to make his next start Thursday against Houston at Dodger Stadium.