The Angels are interested in trading for pitcher Kevin Appier, but the price for the Kansas City Royal ace would be steep and not only because of his $5-million salary.
Herk Robinson, Royal general manager, said he's not shopping Appier, who will be a free agent after this season, and that he hopes to re-sign the right-hander for 1997.
"But if we can't re-sign him, we'd make every effort to trade him," Robinson said. "And if you're going to get Appier, you're going to have to give something up."
At least four Angels--center fielder Jim Edmonds, right fielder Tim Salmon, shortstop Gary DiSarcina and reliever Troy Percival--are believed to be untouchable.
"But everything's always for sale," General Manager Bill Bavasi said.
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The Angels acquired reliever Brad Pennington off waivers from the Boston Red Sox and will activate the hard-throwing but erratic left-hander this weekend. Dennis Springer was optioned to Vancouver.
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Pitcher Shad Williams, who will make his major league debut against the Yankees today, appeared in the film "Angels in the Outfield," as an Oakland Athletic pitcher.
