BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : ANGELS : No Pitching Help From Farm System

Whitey Herzog, Angel vice president, has scrutinized the farm system for pitching and reports there is little help on the way.

He has watched Russ Springer and Jerry Nielsen come and go. He has released Scott Sanderson and Chuck Crim. He sees the continuing troubles of John Farrell. He wonders at times if perhaps the best bullpen performances of the year have been by designated hitter Chili Davis and infielder Rene Gonzales.

“From Day 1 it’s been a total . . . disaster,” Herzog said. “If you look at our pitching staff, the only pleasant surprise we’ve had is (Mike) Butcher, and that was by necessity. Here’s a guy who has taken the bull by the horns and thrown the ball.”

The Angels have virtually exhausted their minor league system for pitchers, Herzog said, with the possible exceptions of Mark Holzemer and reliever Darrell Scott.

The most impressive player in the system, Herzog said, might be Chris Turner, who will be called up in September.

Herzog also said the club probably will pick up the option on Davis’ contract for 1994, and will try to sign left fielder Luis Polonia.

*

Polonia might be having a bad year at the plate, but he’s having his best season in the field.

Considered a defensive liability two years ago, Polonia has proven more than adequate in left field, producing eight assists.

“That part of the game has kept me going all year,” Polonia said. “I haven’t been hitting, but I’ve shown some people I can play defense.”

*

Chuck Finley was given the word that he will miss his turn in the rotation, against Texas, and instead will start Friday against Seattle.

“I tried to talk to (Rodgers) about it,” Finley said, “but it was like he had a prepared statement like President Clinton. I didn’t have a chance.”