ANGELS NOTEBOOK: ANDERSON MENTIONED IN POSSIBLE MCGWIRE TRADE.

Byline: Marc J. Spears Daily News Staff Writer

The Angels' Garret Anderson and a club source admitted that a possible trade for Oakland's Mark McGwire would likely include the left fielder.

The source also said that Anderson's play has suffered because of the rumors. Entering Friday night's game, the ex-Kennedy High star native was batting just .218 with 14 RBI over his last 26 games.

``I have been hearing stuff like that every year,'' said Anderson, 25, in his third year with the Angels. ``My rookie year . . . last year about this time. My name is always the one.

``I don't know why that is. I've thought about it. Maybe it is because (right fielder) Timmy (Salmon) has been here longer. (First baseman) Darin (Estad) just got here . . . Jimmy (Edmonds) is playing good in center field. I guess it is just the process of elimination.''

The trading deadline is July 31. McGwire, who entered Friday with a major league-best 31 homers, has a five-year, $28 million contract with the A's that expires after this season. If the Angels trade for him now they are not guaranteed to sign him after the season. However, Anaheim could ask for permission from the A's to negotiate a pre-trade long-term deal.

Ironically, Angels general manager Bill Bavasi is in Oakland during the current four-game series. He said he would not comment on any McGwire-Anderson trade rumors because it would be tampering.

Anderson in the A's outfield wouldn't be a bad move for Oakland. McGwire will probably not re-sign and their outfield defense is arguably the worst in baseball.

``Thinking about it can be tough at times,'' Anderson said. ``I would like to stay at home. But when it really comes down to it, very few players get to finish their careers with one team.''

Is Eddie ready? Angels designated hitter Eddie Murray, who has been on the disabled list with right wrist tendinitis since June 12, has resumed taking batting practice this week. On Friday, Angels manager Terry Collins was so impressed with his batting that he plans to meet with Murray and Bavasi about a timetable for a return. The 21-year veteran hasn't played since June 11 and is batting just .219.

``It has been frustrating,'' Murray said. ``I'm somebody that when I sign up to play, I sign up to play. It has been tough sitting around. You want to do things but you can't do anything.

``There is no pain right now and that is good. The thing is to just get healthy.''

ETC: Angels second baseman Luis Alicea, who has been out the last three games with back spasms, is expected to return to play Monday against visiting Texas. . . . The Angels signed four Mexican players to minor league contracts. The Angels haven't produced a home-grown Latin American player in the last 10 years. Due to Mexican League rules, the players were officially signed by league member Oaxaca and will be assigned to the Angels next season.