Guerrero, Back in Action, Hits Homer to Help Albuquerque Beat Tucson, 8-0

Dodger slugger Pedro Guerrero, inactive for 48 days because of chronic soreness in his neck, was so eager to face live pitching that he decided to begin his rehabilitation assignment at Albuquerque, N.M, Saturday night, one day earlier than scheduled.

As it turned out, not only was Guerrero pleased about his decision, but so was Terry Collins, manager of the Albuquerque Dukes, the Dodgers’ triple-A affiliate in the Pacific Coast League.

Guerrero, who resumed taking batting practice about two weeks ago, started the game against Tucson at first base. In only his second at-bat before a crowd of 6,218, he hit a two-run home run that helped Albuquerque defeat the Toros, 8-0.

Guerrero, who hit the homer in the fourth inning, also walked twice. An Albuquerque spokesman said Guerrero played six innings and reported no discomfort in his sore neck.

He is expected to play with Albuquerque today and Monday and join the Dodgers in time for Tuesday’s doubleheader against the Giants in San Francisco.