HILJUS CONTINUES TO MAKE MAJOR STRIDES EX-CANYON PITCHER TARGETS BIG-LEAGUE STAY.

Byline: Heather Gripp Staff Writer

Erik Hiljus didn't know whether to feel like he was being teased or to enjoy the taste of feeling like royalty.

In a span of a little more than a week, Hiljus was twice promoted to the Detroit Tigers and sent back to their Triple-A affiliate in Toledo. Just when he'd finish unpacking, he was on the move again. But after 10 seasons in the minor leagues, Hiljus has learned to appreciate even the smallest things.

``It's been pretty hectic to say the least,'' said Hiljus, a right-handed reliever. ``But this year especially, for me to get up there was a privilege. I can't complain.''

His major-league debut last season helped reinforce the appreciation.

As a September call-up, the Canyon High product got to experience the excitement surrounding the franchise's final season at Tiger Stadium.

``That was unbelievable,'' Hiljus said. ``I'm glad I got to be there for that. I got to see what a small part of the game I am. It helps you realize all the history there is in this game and all the great players. That put me at the perfect position to see how lucky I am.''

Even if his stays in the majors have been brief, they've been everything he dreamed of as a child.

``Oh yeah, no doubt about it,'' Hiljus said. ``It's like royalty up there. You know you've made it when you get there. It's like a king being crowned. It's awesome.''

He anticipates another September call-up this year, but what he's really hoping for is a chance to stay in the big leagues long enough to get comfortable and prove himself at that level.

Staying healthy is also key.

Hiljus missed the entire 1997 season because of surgery on his right shoulder, which eventually led to his being released by the Cardinals organization. He had knee surgery last year.

His love for the game and competitive drive keeps Hiljus going in a minor-league career that dates back to 1991 when he was with the Mets organization. An improved work ethic and becoming a well-rounded pitcher are what he believes keeps clubs interested in him.

``I used to be mainly a fastball pitcher,'' Hiljus said. ``Now I'm more of a complete pitcher. I've learned how to mix the pitches up and have better location instead of trying to throw it past everyone. I'm not a master like (Greg) Maddux, but I consider myself a pitcher. I'm definitely more complete.''

He entered this week's series against Louisville with a 5-2 record, one save and a 2.89 ERA for last-place Toledo. In his two stays with the Tigers this year - which came between July 23 and Aug. 2 - Hiljus appeared in three games for a combined 3 2/3 innings. He gave up five hits and three runs.

``It was very frustrating because you can't settle in,'' he said. ``It's difficult, but you learn it's part of the game and you enjoy being up there while you can.

``I just need to continue the same stuff I'm doing now and get a chance to stay up there and be comfortable. I know if I'm comfortable I can be effective. Hopefully then they'll let me stay.''

HILJUS FILE

Name: Erik Hiljus

Team: Toledo Mud Hens, Tigers' Triple-A affiliate

Position: Pitcher

Age: 27

Local tie: Canyon High

Career highlights: Made his major-league debut Sept. 10, 1999 against Toronto. . . . Averaged 12.27 strikeouts per nine innings during his 1999 minor-league season, tying him for ninth best among full-season minor- league relievers. . . . Was converted to a reliever in 1998 and earned his first professional save April 13 of that year. . . . Was selected to play in the 1995 Florida State League All-Star game. . . . Was one of three Gulf Coast League pitchers to throw a shutout in 1991. . . . Selected by the New York Mets in the fourth round of the 1991 draft.

CAPTION(S):

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Box: (ran in Conejo and SAC edition only) Hiljus File (see text)