One day after scoring 16 runs against the Mets, two Dodger split-squad teams managed one run over a combined 19 innings. At Holman Stadium, the Dodgers and visiting Washington Nationals played nine scoreless innings. The game was called after nine because Washington ran out of pitchers. Starter Brad Penny, who didn’t throw a ball during a regular exhibition game in 2005, looked strong in his three innings. So did relief pitcher Takashi Saito, who struck out three batters in two innings. After his appearance, Saito received a round of applause from the crowd alongside the bullplen. He tipped his cap and bowed.

At Jupiter, the Dodgers and Marlins played to a 1-1 tie in a game called after 10 innings. Non-roster pitcher Aaron Sele started and allowed two hits in 2.2 scoreless innings.

You never know who will show up at the ballpark, especially during the relaxed atmosphere in spring training. In the press box, the Little League coach of Nationals GM Jim Bowden was looking for his former first baseman from 40 years ago.

Former Dodgers Frank Robinson, the Washington manager, and coach Davey Lopes stayed behind at the Nationals’ spring complex in Viera for a split-squad game. Lopes is wearing uniform No. 5 this season, the first uniform number of his professional career when he broke into pro ball with the Dodgers in 1968. He wore No. 15 with the Dodgers from 1972-81.

On a personal note, it was great to see my namesake, non-roster catcher Eric Langill, Monday morning in the Dodger clubhouse. Don’t know if we’re related, but we’re both French Canadian and have the same middle name (Joseph). He lost 25 pounds during the offseason after playing for Team Canada in the IBAF World Cup held in the Netherlands. Eric also has a weekly 20-minute sports segment on a Vancouver radio station and plans to interview Dodger manager Grady Little as his guest on Friday.

Eric Gagne threw on the sidelines today and is expected to pitch in Wednesday’s home game against the Orioles.