BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : ANGELS : Springer the Stopper to Seek First Save

Russ Springer, who never has recorded a save as a pro, will be used in the bullpen stopper’s role for at least the next two weeks during Joe Grahe’s absence, Angel Manager Buck Rodgers said.

Springer, who was being groomed as a stopper in the New York Yankee organization during the Arizona Fall League until being traded to the Angels in the Jim Abbott deal, said he was informed by Rodgers in a private meeting of his role.

“I like the fact that they have confidence in me in those situations,” Springer said, “and hopefully I’ll show them I can do the job. I’m confident I can. . . .

“I’d still like to be a starter, but obviously, there’s nothing better than being in there with the game on the line.”

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Angel catcher Ron Tingley, who went the first six weeks of the season without a plate appearance, is taking advantage of his opportunity with John Orton on the disabled list.

Tingley, starting Saturday for the third time in the last five games, threw out Omar Vizquel in the first inning, snapping the streak of 11 consecutive stolen bases against them. The Angels had thrown out only 14 of 55 attempting to steal before Tingley’s throw.

Although he entered Saturday’s game batting .333 and has the best arm of the three Angel catchers, Rodgers said, he cannot assure that Tingley, 34, will receive more playing time when Orton returns.