Los Angeles Angels manager Mike Scioscia said Monday that Brandon Wood , the organization's top prospect for several years, will get first crack at the third base job, with Maicer Izturis likely to open the season as a utility infielder.

"He's a guy we would like to take the position," Scioscia said when asked whether Wood was a lock to be his starting third baseman. "He has to show he's ready, but right now, we're looking for him to get the first opportunity there, with Izzy helping out with the versatility he brings to play second, third and shortstop."

In 224 big league at-bats since 2007, the 25-year-old Wood has hit .192 with seven home runs, 19 runs batted in, 74 strikeouts and seven walks. But the Angels believe that with regular playing time, the former Salt Lake Bee has the potential to hit 15 to 20 home runs and cut down on his strikeouts.

Knoblauch guilty

Former major league infielder Chuck Knoblauch pleaded guilty Tuesday in Houston to misdemeanor assault on his common-law wife in September. The 41-year-old --- who played for Minnesota, the New York Yankees and Kansas City from 1991-2002 -- was placed on a year's probation.

Smoltz gets TV job

John Smoltz is embarking on a career as an analyst for Turner Broadcasting and the MLB Network, although he's not quite ready to say he's thrown his final major league pitch. Smoltz had right shoulder surgery and missed more than a year before playing for Boston and St. Louis last season.

Around the horn

Dodgers » Reliever Cory Wade will have surgery on his right shoulder today and is expected to miss at least three months.

Marlins » Former All-Star closer Derrick Turnbow says his chances of making Florida's roster are "over" after he left Tuesday's 12-3 win over Washington with severe shoulder pain.

Rangers » Outfielder Josh Hamilton 's left hand is OK after being hit by a pitch. Now he has a toothache. Hamilton arrived at the Rangers clubhouse Tuesday morning with a swollen face, and then went to the dentist for what is believed to be an infected tooth.

Hamilton was hit by a pitch on the top of his left hand in Monday night's game against San Francisco. X-rays were negative.