BASEBALL DAILY REPORT

There was no greater beneficiary from the Dodgers’ trade Wednesday with the Detroit Tigers than Dodger reliever Darren Dreifort.

Dreifort, who figured he’d be sent back to triple-A Albuquerque at the end of this week when starter Tom Candiotti is eligible to return from the disabled list, now will be with the Dodgers for the rest of the season.

In fact, it was Dreifort’s performance during his first two appearances that led to Joey Eischen’s departure. Simply, the Dodgers wanted Dreifort on their playoff roster--not Eischen.

The deal seals the fate of Chad Fonville, who is expected to be optioned to triple-A Albuquerque this week. The Dodgers, who now have 10 pitchers, could go with an extra position player if they needed. Yet, they already have to make a move for third baseman Tim Wallach, who will be called up by Monday.