COPS WHOMP CELEBS 6-1 IN JUST-FOR-FUN CHARITY BALLGAME.

Byline: Brent Hopkins Staff Writer

SYLMAR - These all-stars don't go on strike.

Their uniforms aren't as flashy as the Dodgers, and instead of names like ``A-Rod'' and ``The Hammer,'' they call each other ``Officer'' and ``Lieutenant.''

But the Los Angeles Police Department's baseball squad doesn't lack in the talent department. And with bats cracking, the team routed a band of celebrity former players on Saturday in the department's second annual Swing-a-Thon at El Carriso Park.

``I think I see some prospects on the field,'' said former Dodger manager Tommy Lasorda. ``We need some help with the long ball, so I'll be scouting.''

Though light-hearted in nature, organizers said the event masked a serious purpose.

``It's so important for kids to see the police officers as human beings,'' said Bobby Arias, a community activist who called the five-inning game. ``It creates a relationship between the LAPD and the community. If we can do that now and create a dialogue, hopefully we won't have to do it again when they're older.''

Attended by an estimated 400 kids and parents, the event raised money for various youth charities.

The cops fielded a tough-looking squad composed of officers from divisions across the city and seasoned in tournament play.

The celebrity team, led by former Cincinnati Red and Dodger great Eric Davis, didn't stand a chance, going down 6-1.

``Our team is real competitive,'' said Officer Michael Scott, who serves in the Van Nuys Division when not suiting up for the ball club. ``They won't let up for Eric Davis or anybody.''

Davis, who retired from the San Francisco Giants last season, was just glad to volunteer his time.

``It feels fantastic, because it's for a great cause,'' Davis said between innings. ``This is the first time I've swung a bat in a year.''

He managed to rein in his old competitive spirit, however, noting the off-field toughness of his rivals.

``They've got guns,'' he joked. ``Why would I want to beat them?''

The only heat the police needed Saturday afternoon, however, came from their arms.

Though unaccustomed to playing with the larger softball brought on for the charity event, the cops slung the melon-sized ball with withering accuracy.

Led by Lt. Tim Moss of the Devonshire station, who provided some key bat work alongside his coaching, the team played with an intensity not generally found at charity events.

The police had at least one ringer, however, as City Council President Alex Padilla suited up in the No. 7 jersey and caught for several innings. After getting aboard late in the game, he scored a run for the LAPD squad, eliciting the notice of some seasoned baseball pros. As Lasorda eyed the tall politician's arm, Arias chastened the Dodger legend.

``Stay away from No. 7,'' protested Arias. ``We need his help on the City Council.''

Though they ultimately rolled over to the police, the celebrities seemed to enjoy their time back on the diamond.

``Oh, man, you coulda hung some clothes on that line drive I hit out there,'' said former Dodger outfielder Rudy Law. ``Man, that was straight.''

Teammate Derrel Thomas, who held down a number of positions in Chavez Ravine in his playing days, wasn't so sure.

``Oh, yeah,'' he cackled. ``What about that one you dropped last inning?''

CAPTION(S):

2 photos

Photo:

(1 -- color) Mariah Linear, 4, of San Fernando, gives a high five to Mike Scott, a Van Nuys Division officer, during the LAPD's annual celebrity baseball game.

(2) Ex-Dodger Rudy Law, left, and other former professional baseball players Sylvester Washington, center, and Lorenzo Gray joke around before the LAPD's annual celebrity charity game.

Tina Burch/Staff Photographer