Murray’s watchful eye helping 51s youngsters

Nick Christensen

Tuesday, July 29, 2003 | 9:03 a.m.

When Calvin Murray talks about prospects, he knows he's not talking about himself.

Murray, a 31-year-old outfielder with the 51s, was the PCL's MVP in 1999, but has often been last on the four- or five-deep lineup of 51s outfielders. Instead, prospects like Chin-Feng Chen, Wilkin Ruan, Bubba Crosby, Jason Romano and Chad Hermansen have all had a higher priority for playing time.

So Murray, back in the minors after three seasons in the big leagues, is working on his pinch-hitting. He popped out Monday, hitting for pitcher Agustin Montero in the 51s' 11-6 loss to Albuquerque at Cashman Field.

"Maybe I'm tricking myself, but that's my story and I'm sticking to it," joked Murray. "Sitting as much as I've sat, you just sit back, watch the game more, and prepare myself in a way. I've tried to turn it into a positive, coming off the bench, learn how to become a good pinch-hitter. I'm learning to hit all over the order."

Murray signed with the Dodgers after splitting most of last year between Texas and Triple-A Oklahoma. In 89 games this year, he has hit .272, with 12 stolen bases in 16 attempts.

But Murray, according to manager John Shoemaker, offers as much with his leadership as he does with his bat.

"He's talked a lot to a lot of the players," Shoemaker said. "Sometimes, sitting back on the bench, if you're observant, like he is, you get a good chance to see what's going on. He has seen what it takes to become a major leaguer."

Murray says he doesn't conduct himself like he's anything special, but knows he can offer a lot to the younger players.

"I have a little more experience than other people. I've played on winning teams at every level," he said.

"I think that the way I carry myself, I don't walk around and try to make those guys think I'm the super-genius. I'm just one of the guys. I don't bust anybody's chops, but if I see something out there, I say it."

And in his observations, he has been able to offer advice to Ruan, Chen and Thurston.

"I try to help those guys as much as possible," Murray said. "I'm not one to sit up there and complain, because they've got young guys. I help those guys out -- Wilkin, Chin -- I do what I can to help those guys. But I'm more worried about making myself a better player."

And improving his game goes back to the batting. Murray said that he's not terribly disappointed with the way things have gone this year.

"I would expect for my numbers to be better than what they are, but the way we've been going about our business here, I feel I've done a decent job," he said. "I try to stay positive, try to keep a good head."