DODGERS UPDATE: HUNDLEY PLEASED TO BE BACK.

Byline: Brian Dohn Staff Writer

Catcher Todd Hundley criticized Los Angeles fans for their late-arriving, laid-back attitude upon his departure from the Dodgers after the 2000 season, but that might be exactly what he needs after two miserable years with the Chicago Cubs.

Hundley learned of his trade back to the Dodgers while golfing in Monterrey, and he's happy about it, even if it means backing up close friend Paul Lo Duca.

``I have no problem with Dodgers fans whatsoever,'' Hundley said Tuesday. ``I'm fine. I'm excited to go back to L.A.''

It might be a welcomed change given his experience in Chicago. After hitting 48 homers and driving in 125 runs in two seasons with the Dodgers, he signed a four-year, $23.5 million deal to play for his hometown Cubs.

In two seasons, Hundley batted .199 with 28 homers and 66 RBI in a platoon role. Signed to be the starting catcher, he lost that tag before his first spring training. It led to a contentious relationship between Hundley and manager Don Baylor.

``They signed me to four years, and right at the start I wasn't in the lineup consistently,'' said Hundley, who was re-acquired by the Dodgers in the Eric Karros and Mark Grudzielanek trade. ``I had no idea what my job was. I sat for two years and (260) at-bats each year. It blew me away. I don't know how you can pay a guy what they paid me and give me (260) at-bats.

``What can you do, though? You're an employee and you have to do what they tell you.''

Hundley, 33, said he accepts his backup role and added he would give first base a try if the Dodgers asked.

``Lo Duca, he's a great, great catcher,'' Hundley said. ``I'm proud of him. I'm there to protect him in whatever role Jim wants me in.''

Hundley credits much of his outstanding 2000 season (24 homers, 80 RBI) to working with strength and conditioning coach Todd Clausen in the offseason. Hundley said he's already talked to Clausen about a workout program this offseason.

Also, infielder Dave Hansen, the Dodgers' all-time pinch-hit leader, signed a two-year deal with the San Diego Padres. It will pay him $1.3 million, sources said.