1.   And Johnson has liked Tripp Cromer since the utility infielder was with the Cardinals and Johnson was in Cincinnati.

2.   Andy Fox, a utility infielder, is among the lower-echelon prospects being discussed.

3.   Arbitration has made millionaires of utility infielders.

4.   As expected, David Cone filed for free agency Tuesday, along with the utility infielder Luis Sojo.

5.   Baerga probably will make the team as a utility infielder, but his role is larger than that.

6.   Atlanta Braves general manager John Schuerholz spoke with Dodgers general manager Kevin Malone about acquiring utility infielder Jose Vizcaino for a pitching prospect, several sources said.

7.   Because the utility infielder Melvin Mora was put on the disabled list with stitches in his right index finger, the Mets recalled Joe McEwing from Class AAA Norfolk.

8.   ...Expanding his role as a utility infielder, Jose Vizcaino played first base for two innings.

9.   A busy off season for the Mets became even busier Friday when they traded right-handed pitcher Willie Blair to the Detroit Tigers for utility infielder Joe Randa.

10.   A utility infielder before this season, he has started games in left field and right field as well as at second base, shortstop and third base.