DODGERS NOTEBOOK: PIAZZA BLOCKS OUT STALLED TALKS.

Byline: Matt McHale Daily News Staff Writer

Opening Day passed without a new contract for Mike Piazza.

The Dodgers and Piazza's agent Dan Lozano spoke briefly last week, but the catcher insists he will not become distracted by the lack of movement.

``Both sides have said things, and later, I'm sure I will have something to say,'' Piazza said. ``But it's important to remain focused and get this season off to a good start.''

Piazza, seeking a seven-year contract worth around $105 million, went 1 for 3 Tuesday. Behind the plate he called for changeups to Delino DeShields that resulted in a walk and to Mark McGwire that resulted in a grand slam.

He also was struck on the side of the head on a swing by Cardinals catcher Tom Lampkin in the sixth inning. Gary Gaetti was running on the pitch, but Lampkin was called out to end the inning.

``I'm still pretty woozy,'' Piazza said. ``I got clubbed pretty hard.''

Dodgers executive vice president Fred Claire said Tuesday he will not discuss the contract negotiations with Piazza but said he still wants to sign his top player.

``As far as I'm concerned the ball is in their court,'' said Lozano. ``But I would think if this team is interested in winning Mike Piazza belongs somewhere in the middle of that lineup.''

Piazza has been watching the personal attacks between the Boston Red Sox and Mo Vaughn over a new contract and said he doesn't think his negotiations will get out of control.

``You never want to see that,'' Piazza said of the Vaughn situation,'' Piazza said. ``That takes away from the reason we are here. To win and have fun.''

Rule V is alive: Frank Lankford, who made the club after coming over from last December from the New York Yankees, had his major-league debut Tuesday. He pitched the seventh inning and allowed two hits but got out of a jam by striking out Mark McGwire.

``He's a low-ball hitter and I just tried to keep the ball away from him,'' Lankford said. ``As for today, I don't know how many emotions I can describe. It was so exciting to be out there. The adrenaline was incredible.''

If his situation changes and Lankford is sent to the minors this season, he must pass through waivers. If the Yankees wanted him back, they would have to pay $25,000.

Off today: The Dodgers won't play today but will work out this afternoon at Busch Stadium. Chan Ho Park will pitch Thursday against rookie right-hander Cliff Politte, who went to high school in St. Louis. The Cardinals purchased 800 tickets for the student body to attend the game. Classes have been canceled.