BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : Nomo’s Success Could Prove Expensive

Dodger pitcher Hideo Nomo, having proved he can compete, if not dominate, in the major leagues, said he has no plans to return to the Japanese major leagues.

“I want to pitch for the Dodgers as long as I can,” Nomo said. “I can’t express to you how many years I’ll pitch, but I want to be here as long as the team needs me.”

Of course, it could lend to some intriguing negotiations this winter. Nomo, who’s being paid the minimum salary of $109,000--on top of his $2-million signing bonus--isn’t eligible for arbitration until after the 1997 season. The Dodgers have never paid a second-year player more than $435,000.

Nomo, of course, has the negotiating leverage of electing not to play. He also may be able to demonstrate he is producing millions in revenue.

“I don’t anticipate or foresee any contract problems in negotiations,” Dodger President Peter O’Malley said. “My guess is that he wants to be here for the long haul.”

Said Don Nomura, Nomo’s agent: “It’ll be interesting. I think we all know what kind of money Nomo is generating for the Dodgers.”

*

Red Manager Davey Johnson, who played two years for the Toyko Giants in 1975-76, on the ceaseless scrutiny from the Japanese media: “Hey, after surviving two years there, I knew I’d have no trouble managing in New York.” . . . Dodger right fielder Raul Mondesi’s only regret about making the All-Star team is that his wife, Ada, won’t be able to attend the game. She is due with the couple’s second child next week.