01:00 AM EST on Wednesday, February 25, 2004

BY STEVEN KRASNER
Journal Sports Writer

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Today will mark the Red Sox' first full-squad workout of the spring.

And one new face participating in the drills will be an old face.

Ellis Burks, who began his career in the Boston organization, returned to the Red Sox a few weeks ago by signing a free agent contract. Burks, a 17-year veteran, will be used off the bench as a right-handed pinch-hitter, an outfielder and possibly even an emergency first baseman.

Burks, who played for the Red Sox from 1987-1992, was happy to be back.

"I never wanted to leave Boston," said Burks, whose knee problems prompted the Sox to let him dip into the free-agent pool after the 1992 season.

"My contract wasn't renewed because of my injury. They didn't know the extent of it," said Burks. "It worked out for me."

Burks' career flourished with the Chicago White Sox in 1993, and he also starred in Colorado, San Francisco and Cleveland. Burks, who missed much of last season because of an elbow problem that required surgery, says he's ready to get back on the field.

"I was a designated hitter for three years in Cleveland, so I have the strength back in my knees," said Burks. "I think I can play some outfield, maybe give a guy a day off here and there. I'd love to play every day. I know the role they got me for, but if I have the opportunity to play more I'm not going to say no."

Second comings

Pokey Reese, the second baseman signed to strengthen the Sox' defense, said he was looking forward to working with shortstop Nomar Garciaparra to form a good double-play combination.

"That's what spring training is for," said Reese, a Gold Glove winner. "I want to see where Nomar wants the ball (for the double-play feed). Wherever he gives it to me is fine, anywhere around the bag and I'll make the turn. It's no big deal."

Resse is excited about the possibility of playing behind a pitching staff that features several sinkerball pitchers.

"That's great. The more ground balls, it plays right into our hands," he said.

Around the bases

Manager Terry Francona said that closer Keith Foulke (calf injury) is progressing. . . . Pedro Martinez, who participated in the streching, long toss and fielding drills, likely won't throw off a mound for a week. Martinez missed the first three kays of workouts while tending to a family medical matter. Francona was just being cautious, figuring veteran players know how to best get themselves into shape. . . . Bill Mueller, the defending American League batting champion, worked out yesterday. . . . Francona said as far as he knew everyone would be on hand today for the first full-squad workout.