Two years ago, Tony Abreu nearly made the Major League club out of Spring Training. But a series of injuries kept him off the field for the last 1 1/2 seasons and triggered organizational grumbling that he was soft. Now, coming off arthroscopic hip surgery, Abreu could resume his career as a key utility player, according to manager Joe Torre, because he can play second base, third base and shortstop. Torre said his bench shapes up a little light at first base, although he said Mark Loretta and Casey Blake can play the position. He said Andre Ethier again volunteered to work at the position. — Ken Gurnick