With Magic and the boys taking in their first home game as official owners of the Dodgers, the boys in blue didn't disappoint. With nearly every run scored from the sixth inning on, the Dodgers cruised to a win over the Giants, 9-1. It's the first matchup of the season between the two rivals, and the perfect start for what is a new day in Dodger history.
Two wily old veteran lefties got starts in this one, as Ted Lilly took on Barry Zito. Both were effective early. The Dodgers took the lead in the third when Juan Rivera's RBI grounder scored Mark Ellis. The Giants knotted it up in the sixth when Joaquin Arias's RBI single plated Miguel Cabrera, who reached base on an error by Matt Kemp to start the inning.
Once the bottom of the sixth came, however, the Dodgers dominated and never looked back. It began on a single by Bobby Abreu, who started in left. Juan Uribe walked, and A.J. Ellis hit an RBI double to make it 2-1. Tony Gwynn then pinch-hit for Lilly and laid down a bunt single, which was biffed by Conor Gillaspie, scoring Uribe to make it 3-1.
Another Giants' error brought in another Dodgers' run in the seventh. Kemp doubled leading off the inning. Rivera then bounced one back to pitcher Steve Edlefsen, who tried to nail Kemp going to third and instead threw the ball away all together. Kemp practically walked home, and it was 4-1.
After James Loney made a phenomenal diving catch to rob Hector Sanchez to end the top of the eighth, the Dodgers put the game away for good in the eighth. A.J. Ellis singled, Gwynn reached on an error by Buster Posey, and Dee Gordon bunt singled to load the bases. A walk to Mark Ellis made it 5-1.
An RBI single by Adam Kennedy (yes, he actually got a hit) and a two-run single by Andre Ethier upped it to 8-1, and the scoring ended on another RBI groundout from Rivera.
The game was noteworthy for a couple of reason. One, the obvious reason of new ownership in the house, as Magic got a nice, comfy seat near the on-deck circle. Who knows what the future holds, but it's so nice not to have this dark cloud of the McCourt family BS hanging over Dodger Stadium.
The second reason really has nothing to do with this game, but it was about news made beforehand. Don Mattingly has officially turned to Kenley Jansen as his new closer, demoting Javy Guerra. I was surprised to hear this, as I got the feeling that Guerra would be given more chances. But Sunday's meltdown was clearly the last straw. Combine that with what I'm sure is a lot of pressure to see what Jansen can do, and there you go.
As for this one, perhaps a little lost in all the scoring was another great start from Lilly. He's now 4-0 for the first time in his career thanks to a line of six innings, four hits, one run, two walks, and six strikeouts. That's now seven straight wins for him going back to last season, and nine of his last ten. He's quietly been one of the best pitchers in baseball, and looks like he's not slowing down at all.
The Dodgers now sport a shinny five-game lead in the NL West over the second place Giants. I'm not sure anyone would've predicted that before the season. Giant-killer Clayton Kershaw will look to stretch that lead even more by going on Tuesday night. He'll miss another big matchup with Tim Lincecum by one day. I'm sure the Giants are thankful for that.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Guerra struggles again as Dodgers fall in 11
Is it too early to say the Dodgers have a closer problem?
That's the question they're left to ponder after Guerra gave up a run in the ninth for his third blown save. A walk-off walk by David DeJesus off of Jamey Wright gave the Cubbies a win in the 11th, 4-3. The Dodgers dropped two of three in this series to finish their road trip at 2-4.
The news for the Dodgers was practically all negative before the game even started. The game was delayed by nearly three hours because of rain. Not a big deal, but considering they play the Giants at home on Monday, it's not ideal. Then they had to scratch Matt Kemp because of a tight hamstring.
When the game actually started, it was more bad news as Jerry Hairston, Jr. had to leave the game with a bad hamstring beating out a single in the second. The news finally got a little better that inning, as the bases became loaded on walks to A.J. Ellis and Tony Gwynn. Aaron Harang then bounced a grounder for a sure-fire double play, but Starlin Castro's throw to first was off, allowing pinch-runner Adam Kennedy to score and make it 1-0.
Mark Ellis started another rally the next inning, singling and stealing second leading off. Juan Rivera has been battling a sore hamstring himself (it's time to hire a new hamstring stretcher guy), but he started in left and blasted a two-run shot, his second of the season, making it 3-0.
The Cubs responded in the bottom of the third off of Harang. Starting pitcher Travis Wood doubled with an out, and DeJesus walked. After a groundout advanced them to scoring position, Castro's two-run double made it 3-2. Castro was thrown out trying to stretch it to second on the same play.
That score held up all the way through eight innings, even though the Cubs had at least one baserunner in each inning of this one. It's a wonder how the Dodgers even had the lead as long as they did, but with 12 runners left on base, the Cubs were their own worst enemy.
Harang made it through six innings by only giving up a pair of runs, so it was time to test the trio of Josh Lindblom, Kenley Jansen, and Guerra. Lindblom walked Reed Johnson to start the seventh, but got the next three in order. Jansen gave up a single to Bryan LaHair leading off, but blew away the rest in order for a pair of K's.
So now it came down to Guerra, who had four saves and an ERA of 2.16 as recently as April 20. Well, it started off just fine, as Welington Castillo struck out for one down. Then the downfall started, as Ian Stewart singled and DeJesus drew another damn walk. The speedy Travis Campana then lined a run-scoring single into right, but Andre Ethier made a good cutoff throw to Mark Ellis, who then fired home to the other Ellis to nail DeJesus at home and keep the score at 3-3. Castro struck out to send it into extras.
The Dodgers could only muster a single by Rivera in the 11th, as it looked like the life had been sucked out of them. Jamey Wright got through the 10th, but with the bases loaded and nobody out in the 11th, DeJesus ended it with his third walk of the day.
I hate to admit it, but I had a bad feeling about the ninth inning the second I saw Guerra coming in. Maybe it was the fact that the Dodgers were just barely wiggling out of trouble left and right the whole game, and the Cubs were due to finally get a big hit. But maybe it was also the fact that he had struggled so much lately, and just didn't look like a shutdown closer as he entered the game.
I'm not going to go crazy yet, but I do have to say that his latest outing had some eerily similar qualities to when Jonathan Broxton started to go into meltdown mode a couple years back. No, I'm not saying Guerra has reached that point yet, as Broxton was legendary for not being able to step up in big situations. What I am saying is that Guerra needs to get that swagger back that gave him five straight saves to start this season, and 21 total last year.
The Dodgers will look to get back on track with a three-game set against the Giants starting Monday. Hopefully Kemp will be good to go, as he did extend his MLB-best consecutive game streak to 393 by pinch-hitting in the seventh. Matt Cain won't go in this series, but the Giants still have a good staff even without him. Veteran lefties Ted Lilly and Barry Zito will go in the first one.
That's the question they're left to ponder after Guerra gave up a run in the ninth for his third blown save. A walk-off walk by David DeJesus off of Jamey Wright gave the Cubbies a win in the 11th, 4-3. The Dodgers dropped two of three in this series to finish their road trip at 2-4.
The news for the Dodgers was practically all negative before the game even started. The game was delayed by nearly three hours because of rain. Not a big deal, but considering they play the Giants at home on Monday, it's not ideal. Then they had to scratch Matt Kemp because of a tight hamstring.
When the game actually started, it was more bad news as Jerry Hairston, Jr. had to leave the game with a bad hamstring beating out a single in the second. The news finally got a little better that inning, as the bases became loaded on walks to A.J. Ellis and Tony Gwynn. Aaron Harang then bounced a grounder for a sure-fire double play, but Starlin Castro's throw to first was off, allowing pinch-runner Adam Kennedy to score and make it 1-0.
Mark Ellis started another rally the next inning, singling and stealing second leading off. Juan Rivera has been battling a sore hamstring himself (it's time to hire a new hamstring stretcher guy), but he started in left and blasted a two-run shot, his second of the season, making it 3-0.
The Cubs responded in the bottom of the third off of Harang. Starting pitcher Travis Wood doubled with an out, and DeJesus walked. After a groundout advanced them to scoring position, Castro's two-run double made it 3-2. Castro was thrown out trying to stretch it to second on the same play.
That score held up all the way through eight innings, even though the Cubs had at least one baserunner in each inning of this one. It's a wonder how the Dodgers even had the lead as long as they did, but with 12 runners left on base, the Cubs were their own worst enemy.
Harang made it through six innings by only giving up a pair of runs, so it was time to test the trio of Josh Lindblom, Kenley Jansen, and Guerra. Lindblom walked Reed Johnson to start the seventh, but got the next three in order. Jansen gave up a single to Bryan LaHair leading off, but blew away the rest in order for a pair of K's.
So now it came down to Guerra, who had four saves and an ERA of 2.16 as recently as April 20. Well, it started off just fine, as Welington Castillo struck out for one down. Then the downfall started, as Ian Stewart singled and DeJesus drew another damn walk. The speedy Travis Campana then lined a run-scoring single into right, but Andre Ethier made a good cutoff throw to Mark Ellis, who then fired home to the other Ellis to nail DeJesus at home and keep the score at 3-3. Castro struck out to send it into extras.
The Dodgers could only muster a single by Rivera in the 11th, as it looked like the life had been sucked out of them. Jamey Wright got through the 10th, but with the bases loaded and nobody out in the 11th, DeJesus ended it with his third walk of the day.
I hate to admit it, but I had a bad feeling about the ninth inning the second I saw Guerra coming in. Maybe it was the fact that the Dodgers were just barely wiggling out of trouble left and right the whole game, and the Cubs were due to finally get a big hit. But maybe it was also the fact that he had struggled so much lately, and just didn't look like a shutdown closer as he entered the game.
I'm not going to go crazy yet, but I do have to say that his latest outing had some eerily similar qualities to when Jonathan Broxton started to go into meltdown mode a couple years back. No, I'm not saying Guerra has reached that point yet, as Broxton was legendary for not being able to step up in big situations. What I am saying is that Guerra needs to get that swagger back that gave him five straight saves to start this season, and 21 total last year.
The Dodgers will look to get back on track with a three-game set against the Giants starting Monday. Hopefully Kemp will be good to go, as he did extend his MLB-best consecutive game streak to 393 by pinch-hitting in the seventh. Matt Cain won't go in this series, but the Giants still have a good staff even without him. Veteran lefties Ted Lilly and Barry Zito will go in the first one.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Dodgers show fight, but fall in Wrigley
The Dodgers put up three runs late in the game, but were unable to get over the hump in falling on the road to the Cubs, 5-4. After sweeping the Nationals last weekend, the road trip has been a little rough at 1-3.
Chad Billingsley got the ball one start after pitching to a standstill last Saturday against Stephen Strasburg. This start, however, wasn't as good. It started right in the first when David DeJesus doubled leading off. A groundout sent him to third, and he scored on Starlin Castro's RBI single. A two-out RBI single by Alfonso Soriano made it 2-0.
One of the more underrated stars for the Dodgers this early in the season has been Jerry Hairston, Jr., and he continued to show his worth in this one. He led off the third with a liner out to left for his second homer of the season, making it 2-1. That was just a part of his big day, as he collected three hits, including a triple, to raise his average to .327.
The Cubbies got that run back in the fourth. It again started with a double, this time by Darwin Barney. With two outs, Billingsley again couldn't get out of the inning, as DeJesus delivered with an RBI triple, and it was 3-1.
The deficit was increased to three in the sixth when some guy named Joe Mather homered... with two outs. No offense or anything, I just have never heard of him before. But anyway, it was now 4-1.
Both teams traded single runs in the seventh. Andre Ethier led off with a double. After going to third on a grounder an out later, Hairston's RBI triple made it 4-2. Bobby Abreu made his Dodger debut with two outs, but struck out looking.
Scott Elbert was put in charge of keeping it a one-run game... and flunked. Tony Campana singled leading off, but was gunned out by A.J. Ellis attempting to steal. But, Castro and Bryan LaHair hit singles, which chased Elbert and brought in the returning Todd Coffey. Castro then stole third and came in on Soriano's RBI double, and it was 5-2.
To their credit, the Dodgers didn't give up and made this a close game in the eighth. Mark Ellis walked with one down and stole second. It's probably no surprise that the combo of Matt Kemp and Ethier drove in runs, but they did. Kemp had an RBI triple, and he scored on Ethier's sac-fly RBI, making this a whole new ballgame at 5-4.
With Carlos Marmol getting booted from the closer's role, Dale Sveum gave the ball to young Rafael Dolis. He beaned A.J. Ellis with two down, but got Abreu to line out to deep right to end it.
It was a disappointing start for Billingsley, mostly because he just couldn't find the pitches he needed to wiggle out of damage with two outs. He ended up going six innings for eight hits, four runs, three walks, and four strikeouts. The Cubs left 10 men on base, but did have three RBIs with two outs compared to the Dodgers' one.
These last couple of days must have been a whirlwind for Abreu, who instantly because a big bat off the bench. I'm not sure he really expected to get in this one, but sure enough, there he was with two at-bats and some time in left field. Time will tell if he's washed up, but he hit 20 homers and 78 RBIs as little as two years ago, so it's worth a look to see if he can get some big hits again.
Chris Capuano will take the ball on Saturday afternoon, as he looks to get to 4-0. Matt Garza has been pushed back a day to Sunday because of a virus, so the Dodgers will instead face the awful Chris Volstad. Let's hope we're still saying he's awful after the game as well.
Chad Billingsley got the ball one start after pitching to a standstill last Saturday against Stephen Strasburg. This start, however, wasn't as good. It started right in the first when David DeJesus doubled leading off. A groundout sent him to third, and he scored on Starlin Castro's RBI single. A two-out RBI single by Alfonso Soriano made it 2-0.
One of the more underrated stars for the Dodgers this early in the season has been Jerry Hairston, Jr., and he continued to show his worth in this one. He led off the third with a liner out to left for his second homer of the season, making it 2-1. That was just a part of his big day, as he collected three hits, including a triple, to raise his average to .327.
The Cubbies got that run back in the fourth. It again started with a double, this time by Darwin Barney. With two outs, Billingsley again couldn't get out of the inning, as DeJesus delivered with an RBI triple, and it was 3-1.
The deficit was increased to three in the sixth when some guy named Joe Mather homered... with two outs. No offense or anything, I just have never heard of him before. But anyway, it was now 4-1.
Both teams traded single runs in the seventh. Andre Ethier led off with a double. After going to third on a grounder an out later, Hairston's RBI triple made it 4-2. Bobby Abreu made his Dodger debut with two outs, but struck out looking.
Scott Elbert was put in charge of keeping it a one-run game... and flunked. Tony Campana singled leading off, but was gunned out by A.J. Ellis attempting to steal. But, Castro and Bryan LaHair hit singles, which chased Elbert and brought in the returning Todd Coffey. Castro then stole third and came in on Soriano's RBI double, and it was 5-2.
To their credit, the Dodgers didn't give up and made this a close game in the eighth. Mark Ellis walked with one down and stole second. It's probably no surprise that the combo of Matt Kemp and Ethier drove in runs, but they did. Kemp had an RBI triple, and he scored on Ethier's sac-fly RBI, making this a whole new ballgame at 5-4.
With Carlos Marmol getting booted from the closer's role, Dale Sveum gave the ball to young Rafael Dolis. He beaned A.J. Ellis with two down, but got Abreu to line out to deep right to end it.
It was a disappointing start for Billingsley, mostly because he just couldn't find the pitches he needed to wiggle out of damage with two outs. He ended up going six innings for eight hits, four runs, three walks, and four strikeouts. The Cubs left 10 men on base, but did have three RBIs with two outs compared to the Dodgers' one.
These last couple of days must have been a whirlwind for Abreu, who instantly because a big bat off the bench. I'm not sure he really expected to get in this one, but sure enough, there he was with two at-bats and some time in left field. Time will tell if he's washed up, but he hit 20 homers and 78 RBIs as little as two years ago, so it's worth a look to see if he can get some big hits again.
Chris Capuano will take the ball on Saturday afternoon, as he looks to get to 4-0. Matt Garza has been pushed back a day to Sunday because of a virus, so the Dodgers will instead face the awful Chris Volstad. Let's hope we're still saying he's awful after the game as well.
Belisario is back as MacDougal gets the boot
The Dodgers have decided to roll the dice on Ronald Belisario, activating him off of the restricted list on Thursday. To make room for him, Mike MacDougal was designated for assignment.
It's an interesting move by Ned Colletti, who in effect is hoping that the Dodgers see the Belisario who dominated 2009, and not the guy who has tanked both on an off the field since then. I think this move is more of a reflection of how up and down the bullpen has been this year, and how Colletti will try to do anything to fix it.
It's easy to see why Belisario can be so valuable. In that '09 season, he collected 12 holds with a 2.04 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, and 64 K's in 70 2/3 innings. He formed a great 1-2 punch with Jonathan Broxton, another guy who's career suddenly went into a tailspin around the same time.
Then came the bad, and that was the 2010 season. His strikeouts were down (38 in 55 1/3 innings), and his ERA ballooned to 5.04, a remarkable jump over the course of one year. Visa problems and a month in rehab made for a disaster of a season.
But, the one thing he has going for him is his stuff, and when it's on, it's wicked. The same can be said about MacDougal, who finished last season with a 2.05 ERA in 57 innings. A closer look, however, reveals that his 1.46 WHIP meant he was constantly living on the edge, yet made big pitches when needed. This year, not so much. An ERA of 7.94 and 2.65 WHIP meant he was odd man out.
I can't say I disagree with this decision. MacDougal just isn't reliable enough because of his lack of command. If hitters are patient with him, they'll probably get walked. Belisario could flop, but he also could give big innings. It's worth the risk in my mind.
It's an interesting move by Ned Colletti, who in effect is hoping that the Dodgers see the Belisario who dominated 2009, and not the guy who has tanked both on an off the field since then. I think this move is more of a reflection of how up and down the bullpen has been this year, and how Colletti will try to do anything to fix it.
It's easy to see why Belisario can be so valuable. In that '09 season, he collected 12 holds with a 2.04 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, and 64 K's in 70 2/3 innings. He formed a great 1-2 punch with Jonathan Broxton, another guy who's career suddenly went into a tailspin around the same time.
Then came the bad, and that was the 2010 season. His strikeouts were down (38 in 55 1/3 innings), and his ERA ballooned to 5.04, a remarkable jump over the course of one year. Visa problems and a month in rehab made for a disaster of a season.
But, the one thing he has going for him is his stuff, and when it's on, it's wicked. The same can be said about MacDougal, who finished last season with a 2.05 ERA in 57 innings. A closer look, however, reveals that his 1.46 WHIP meant he was constantly living on the edge, yet made big pitches when needed. This year, not so much. An ERA of 7.94 and 2.65 WHIP meant he was odd man out.
I can't say I disagree with this decision. MacDougal just isn't reliable enough because of his lack of command. If hitters are patient with him, they'll probably get walked. Belisario could flop, but he also could give big innings. It's worth the risk in my mind.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Dodgers cling to victory in Coors
Spotted a 7-0 lead, the Dodgers did everything they possibly could to hold on. Fortunately for them, the Rockies missed the extra point after scoring a touchdown.
Thanks in large part to the great glove of Mark Ellis, the Dodgers held on to beat the Rockies on the road, 7-6. It was an ugly end to what looked like an easy W, but a win's a win, right? Exactly.
The offense was dominant early on, and once again they pounded on the opposition in the first. Dee Gordon, who has had all sorts of trouble getting on base lately, decided not to mess around anymore. He crushed a leadoff homer, which would be career #1 for him. He made it count too; that was a no-doubter all the way.
Ellis got the first of his four singles on the night next, and Matt Kemp also singled for runners on the corners. Andre Ethier then swatted a three-run shot to center for the 4-0 lead and to take the RBI lead from Kemp at 27.
The Dodgers would continue to scorch the ball early. The bases were loaded in the second, but James Loney lined out to end it. In the third, Tony Gwynn singled and stole second leading off. After an errant pickoff throw advanced him to third, A.J. Ellis hit an RBI double to push it to 5-0.
The Ellis behind the plate again got a big hit in the fifth. And again, it started with Gwynn, who doubled. An out later, Ellis hit his second homer of the season, a two-run shot, to put the lead to a comfortable 7-0.
Ted Lilly was rolling at this point, but had a hiccup in the sixth. Eric Young singled leading off, and one out later, Carlos Gonzalez got the Rockies on the board with a two-run homer, and it was now 7-2. Still, Lilly got Troy Tulowitzki looking and Todd Helton lining out to left to end the inning.
Things were definitely looking up for the Dodgers, but Josh Lindblom changed all of that. He's been fantastic this year, but not on Tuesday night. He relieved in the seventh and just got pounded. Two straight doubles by Ramon Hernandez and Chris Nelson with one out made it 7-3. Tyler Colvin pinch-hit, and he came through with a two-run shot, and just like that it was 7-5. Scott Elbert had to put out the fire to escape the inning.
The eighth wouldn't be a whole lot better, as Kemp was picked off to end the top of the inning. In the bottom of the inning, Kenley Jansen immediately watched Tulo rip a triple to right leading off. He scored on a sac-fly RBI by Helton, and it was now a one-run game. Jason Giambi pinch-hit and struck out to end the inning.
With the bullpen already shaken, Don Mattingly gave the ball over to Javy Guerra, who certainly has been through some shaky outings lately himself. He got Colvin swinging for one down. Wilin Rosario pinch-hit and singled, then went to second on a passed ball. In the play of the game, Mark Ellis made a diving stop on Marco Scutaro's grounder to stop the run from scoring. Gonzalez then struck out to end the game and give Guerra his eighth save, and first since April 20.
It was quite the dramatic way to end the game, as Ellis was just the guy to get the job done in the right spot. In one night alone, his 4-for-5 showing at the plate raised his average from .247 to .280. But, it was his glove that ultimately proved to be the difference, as who knows what would have happened had Scutaro's hit gone through to tie the game.
Lilly was again on target, as he went six innings for four hits, two runs, one walk, and four strikeouts. He only threw 79 pitches, but I can understand Mattingly turning the game over to Lindblom in the seventh. The Dodgers had a big lead, Lindblom had been on fire, and Lilly will have plenty of more starts left in him. Too bad it all almost blew up in everybody's faces, but thankfully the Dodgers held on.
Even though the Dodgers were ahead by a big margin early on, you almost got the feeling that something was still going to happen to make it a game again. And that something came in the seventh. I'll give them credit for at least winning this one, as there were definitely more than a few anxious moments late. But, like I said before, a win's a win, so they'll take 10 games over .500 already.
Wednesday afternoon will be the rubber match, as Clayton Kershaw will look to give the Dodgers another series victory. He'll look to match Lilly at 3-0.
Thanks in large part to the great glove of Mark Ellis, the Dodgers held on to beat the Rockies on the road, 7-6. It was an ugly end to what looked like an easy W, but a win's a win, right? Exactly.
The offense was dominant early on, and once again they pounded on the opposition in the first. Dee Gordon, who has had all sorts of trouble getting on base lately, decided not to mess around anymore. He crushed a leadoff homer, which would be career #1 for him. He made it count too; that was a no-doubter all the way.
Ellis got the first of his four singles on the night next, and Matt Kemp also singled for runners on the corners. Andre Ethier then swatted a three-run shot to center for the 4-0 lead and to take the RBI lead from Kemp at 27.
The Dodgers would continue to scorch the ball early. The bases were loaded in the second, but James Loney lined out to end it. In the third, Tony Gwynn singled and stole second leading off. After an errant pickoff throw advanced him to third, A.J. Ellis hit an RBI double to push it to 5-0.
The Ellis behind the plate again got a big hit in the fifth. And again, it started with Gwynn, who doubled. An out later, Ellis hit his second homer of the season, a two-run shot, to put the lead to a comfortable 7-0.
Ted Lilly was rolling at this point, but had a hiccup in the sixth. Eric Young singled leading off, and one out later, Carlos Gonzalez got the Rockies on the board with a two-run homer, and it was now 7-2. Still, Lilly got Troy Tulowitzki looking and Todd Helton lining out to left to end the inning.
Things were definitely looking up for the Dodgers, but Josh Lindblom changed all of that. He's been fantastic this year, but not on Tuesday night. He relieved in the seventh and just got pounded. Two straight doubles by Ramon Hernandez and Chris Nelson with one out made it 7-3. Tyler Colvin pinch-hit, and he came through with a two-run shot, and just like that it was 7-5. Scott Elbert had to put out the fire to escape the inning.
The eighth wouldn't be a whole lot better, as Kemp was picked off to end the top of the inning. In the bottom of the inning, Kenley Jansen immediately watched Tulo rip a triple to right leading off. He scored on a sac-fly RBI by Helton, and it was now a one-run game. Jason Giambi pinch-hit and struck out to end the inning.
With the bullpen already shaken, Don Mattingly gave the ball over to Javy Guerra, who certainly has been through some shaky outings lately himself. He got Colvin swinging for one down. Wilin Rosario pinch-hit and singled, then went to second on a passed ball. In the play of the game, Mark Ellis made a diving stop on Marco Scutaro's grounder to stop the run from scoring. Gonzalez then struck out to end the game and give Guerra his eighth save, and first since April 20.
It was quite the dramatic way to end the game, as Ellis was just the guy to get the job done in the right spot. In one night alone, his 4-for-5 showing at the plate raised his average from .247 to .280. But, it was his glove that ultimately proved to be the difference, as who knows what would have happened had Scutaro's hit gone through to tie the game.
Lilly was again on target, as he went six innings for four hits, two runs, one walk, and four strikeouts. He only threw 79 pitches, but I can understand Mattingly turning the game over to Lindblom in the seventh. The Dodgers had a big lead, Lindblom had been on fire, and Lilly will have plenty of more starts left in him. Too bad it all almost blew up in everybody's faces, but thankfully the Dodgers held on.
Even though the Dodgers were ahead by a big margin early on, you almost got the feeling that something was still going to happen to make it a game again. And that something came in the seventh. I'll give them credit for at least winning this one, as there were definitely more than a few anxious moments late. But, like I said before, a win's a win, so they'll take 10 games over .500 already.
Wednesday afternoon will be the rubber match, as Clayton Kershaw will look to give the Dodgers another series victory. He'll look to match Lilly at 3-0.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
April was a month to remember
As a life-long Dodger fan, I can tell you that the opening month of the 2012 season was as much fun watching baseball as I've felt in a quite awhile. With a 16-7 record and a lead in the NL West nearly the entire month, it's about as good a start as you can ask for.
There's many reasons this has been an awesome month of baseball, so let's take a look at 10 of them:
1) MATT KEMP. It's good to hear the "baseball guys" on TV finally refer to him as being the best player in the game. Because, well, he is. He could not have possibly played any better when you look at these ridiculous numbers: .417 AVG, .490 OBP, 24 R, 35 H, 4 2B, 12 HR, 25 RBI, 2 SB. Holy crap!
He's currently leading the Triple Crown in the NL, and in all of baseball as well (Josh Hamilton is tied with him at 25 RBIs). If that wasn't enough, he's also leading in runs, hits, slugging %, and OPS. In addition to playing his usual great D, it's been a pleasure to watch him very night. Each at-bat I get the same feeling that I got when Manny Ramirez came on the scene at the end of '08 - every time he's up, something big is going to happen. He is far and away the best player in the bigs now.
2) Clayton Kershaw. Ho hum, ho hum.... 2-0, 1.78 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 28 K's in 30 1/3 innings. Seriously, it's pretty amazing when you come to expect such minuscule numbers from him and not even be surprised when he delivers anymore. What might be most amazing is that he gutted it out on Opening Day by pitching three scoreless innings with the flu. We knew he was good, now we know he's tough too.
3) The other three starting pitchers: Chad Billingsley, Ted Lilly, Chris Capuano. We knew Kershaw would be Kershaw, but there was a bit of unknown about the rest of the rotation. And to their credit, they have more than been on the money. Billingsley is the most satisfying to watch thus far. He's 2-1 with a 2.64 ERA and 0.95 WHIP. His low WHIP is fantastic, which shows he's pounding the strike zone and not beating himself with walks. Is he finally the #2 starter we've been waiting to see? I sure hope so.
Lilly has picked up right where he left off last season, as he's 2-0 with a 0.90 ERA and 0.85 WHIP. Can it possibly get any better than that? I though for sure he was washed up last year, but boy was I wrong. He's keeping hitters off balance and getting the results.
Capuano was sort of like a wild card, as he throws hard, but the numbers didn't always look pretty. But with numbers of 3-0, 2.73 ERA, and 1.21 WHIP, he's been a great addition. It's especially sweet considering he's the #4 starter, and pitching like an ace.
Sorry to Aaron Harang, who did strikeout nine straight Padres in one game, but has an ugly 5.72 ERA. So no love to you yet.
4) Josh Lindblom. Javy Guerra, Kenley Jansen, Matt Guerrier, Todd Coffey, Scott Elbert and Mike MacDougal have all gone through their share of ups and downs, which makes it even more remarkable that the Dodgers have played so well. But, if there's one rock in the bullpen, it's been young Lindblom. Here's a guy who looked like he was going to be sent back to Triple-A early in the month when Lilly came off the DL, and now he has an 0.68 ERA and four holds. If he keeps pitching like that, I'm sure fans will start clamoring for him to be the closer in no time.
5) Andre Ethier. Ethier probably has to laugh at how little attention he gets with the numbers he has. He can thank Mr. Kemp for that. But for a guy who has gone through a roller coaster ride in LA for the most part, he's now playing like a guy who deserves a fat contract extension. His .276 AVG isn't too high, but he's right behind Kemp for the RBI lead with 24, which shows he's getting timely hits again. The middle of the order is as good as it gets in baseball.
6) A.J. Ellis. I'm as proud of this guy as I am of anyone else on the team. Ellis been sent up and down like an elevator so many times, I'm sure he couldn't help but wonder if he'd ever get a true chance at starting. Well, he's starting now, and he looks great. His .291 AVG is great, but what sticks out is his .443 OBP, thanks to 15 walks he's drawn in the #8 hole. Plus, he plays very good defense behind the plate. Good for him.
7) Jerry Hairston, Jr. Yes, Hairston has been a big part of the huge start. Where else can you find guys who can play nearly every position in the field, make spectacular plays, and hold his own at the plate? And all in a reserve roll? He has already made some highlight reel diving grabs, and is hitting .300 with a .417 OBP. The Dodgers lost Jamey Carroll and Aaron Miles from last season, two guys who filled the same type of roll. But Hairston looks even better, and will continue to earn more playing time going forward because of it.
8) Don Mattingly. Who knows how much or how little managers really affect their team's play, but I really do believe that Mattingly's calm, business-like approach has rubbed off very well on his team. He's gotten these guys to embrace finding ways to get on base with a .333 OBP, third in the NL. They are also hitting .267 with runners in scoring position, also good for third. Then there's the defensive side of the field, as they have a .985 fielding %, fourth in the NL.
Considering Donny Ballgame has a career .358 OBP and an incredible .996 fielding % at first base, it's no surprise that he's gotten his club to excel in these two areas. Yes, it helps to have one guy alone smack 14 homers, but all of the wins are because of a team effort. And that's the mark Mattingly has been leaving.
9) New ownership. With the team of Magic Johnson, Stan Kasten, Mark Walter, and a few others behind the scenes, it's nice to not have this drama hanging like a black cloud over Dodger Stadium anymore. Time will tell what kind of a mark they will leave, but it's safe to say that playing with the Dodgers can become a cool thing again, thanks to their wallets.
10) No Frank McCourt. Sorry, Frank... but I couldn't resist.
There's many reasons this has been an awesome month of baseball, so let's take a look at 10 of them:
1) MATT KEMP. It's good to hear the "baseball guys" on TV finally refer to him as being the best player in the game. Because, well, he is. He could not have possibly played any better when you look at these ridiculous numbers: .417 AVG, .490 OBP, 24 R, 35 H, 4 2B, 12 HR, 25 RBI, 2 SB. Holy crap!
He's currently leading the Triple Crown in the NL, and in all of baseball as well (Josh Hamilton is tied with him at 25 RBIs). If that wasn't enough, he's also leading in runs, hits, slugging %, and OPS. In addition to playing his usual great D, it's been a pleasure to watch him very night. Each at-bat I get the same feeling that I got when Manny Ramirez came on the scene at the end of '08 - every time he's up, something big is going to happen. He is far and away the best player in the bigs now.
2) Clayton Kershaw. Ho hum, ho hum.... 2-0, 1.78 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 28 K's in 30 1/3 innings. Seriously, it's pretty amazing when you come to expect such minuscule numbers from him and not even be surprised when he delivers anymore. What might be most amazing is that he gutted it out on Opening Day by pitching three scoreless innings with the flu. We knew he was good, now we know he's tough too.
3) The other three starting pitchers: Chad Billingsley, Ted Lilly, Chris Capuano. We knew Kershaw would be Kershaw, but there was a bit of unknown about the rest of the rotation. And to their credit, they have more than been on the money. Billingsley is the most satisfying to watch thus far. He's 2-1 with a 2.64 ERA and 0.95 WHIP. His low WHIP is fantastic, which shows he's pounding the strike zone and not beating himself with walks. Is he finally the #2 starter we've been waiting to see? I sure hope so.
Lilly has picked up right where he left off last season, as he's 2-0 with a 0.90 ERA and 0.85 WHIP. Can it possibly get any better than that? I though for sure he was washed up last year, but boy was I wrong. He's keeping hitters off balance and getting the results.
Capuano was sort of like a wild card, as he throws hard, but the numbers didn't always look pretty. But with numbers of 3-0, 2.73 ERA, and 1.21 WHIP, he's been a great addition. It's especially sweet considering he's the #4 starter, and pitching like an ace.
Sorry to Aaron Harang, who did strikeout nine straight Padres in one game, but has an ugly 5.72 ERA. So no love to you yet.
4) Josh Lindblom. Javy Guerra, Kenley Jansen, Matt Guerrier, Todd Coffey, Scott Elbert and Mike MacDougal have all gone through their share of ups and downs, which makes it even more remarkable that the Dodgers have played so well. But, if there's one rock in the bullpen, it's been young Lindblom. Here's a guy who looked like he was going to be sent back to Triple-A early in the month when Lilly came off the DL, and now he has an 0.68 ERA and four holds. If he keeps pitching like that, I'm sure fans will start clamoring for him to be the closer in no time.
5) Andre Ethier. Ethier probably has to laugh at how little attention he gets with the numbers he has. He can thank Mr. Kemp for that. But for a guy who has gone through a roller coaster ride in LA for the most part, he's now playing like a guy who deserves a fat contract extension. His .276 AVG isn't too high, but he's right behind Kemp for the RBI lead with 24, which shows he's getting timely hits again. The middle of the order is as good as it gets in baseball.
6) A.J. Ellis. I'm as proud of this guy as I am of anyone else on the team. Ellis been sent up and down like an elevator so many times, I'm sure he couldn't help but wonder if he'd ever get a true chance at starting. Well, he's starting now, and he looks great. His .291 AVG is great, but what sticks out is his .443 OBP, thanks to 15 walks he's drawn in the #8 hole. Plus, he plays very good defense behind the plate. Good for him.
7) Jerry Hairston, Jr. Yes, Hairston has been a big part of the huge start. Where else can you find guys who can play nearly every position in the field, make spectacular plays, and hold his own at the plate? And all in a reserve roll? He has already made some highlight reel diving grabs, and is hitting .300 with a .417 OBP. The Dodgers lost Jamey Carroll and Aaron Miles from last season, two guys who filled the same type of roll. But Hairston looks even better, and will continue to earn more playing time going forward because of it.
8) Don Mattingly. Who knows how much or how little managers really affect their team's play, but I really do believe that Mattingly's calm, business-like approach has rubbed off very well on his team. He's gotten these guys to embrace finding ways to get on base with a .333 OBP, third in the NL. They are also hitting .267 with runners in scoring position, also good for third. Then there's the defensive side of the field, as they have a .985 fielding %, fourth in the NL.
Considering Donny Ballgame has a career .358 OBP and an incredible .996 fielding % at first base, it's no surprise that he's gotten his club to excel in these two areas. Yes, it helps to have one guy alone smack 14 homers, but all of the wins are because of a team effort. And that's the mark Mattingly has been leaving.
9) New ownership. With the team of Magic Johnson, Stan Kasten, Mark Walter, and a few others behind the scenes, it's nice to not have this drama hanging like a black cloud over Dodger Stadium anymore. Time will tell what kind of a mark they will leave, but it's safe to say that playing with the Dodgers can become a cool thing again, thanks to their wallets.
10) No Frank McCourt. Sorry, Frank... but I couldn't resist.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Dodgers earn a sweep in battle of division leaders
In an April to remember, the Dodgers made another big statement.
James Loney's two-run single in the sixth held up the rest of the way, as the Dodgers beat the Nationals again, 2-0. That's now three sweeps this young season for L.A., as they improved their record to an NL-best 16-6.
Much like the other two games in this series, there wasn't a big margin of error for each team. In fact, the Dodgers won three straight by a combined score of only 9-5. That's a normal game over in the American League. In this league, that passes as an entire series.
The bats were silent through five innings. Both teams really only had one scoring opportunity. Ian Desmond doubled leading off the fourth, then advanced to third on a bunt. A couple strikeouts later killed that threat. Matt Treanor singled with an out in the fifth and also moved up on a bunt, but Tony Gwynn popped up with two down.
Then came the sixth, and the Dodgers finally broke through. Gio Gonzalez was pitching beautifully up to this point, but was his own worst enemy here. With one out, Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and Juan Uribe all drew walks. Loney came up in a big spot, and found himself in a 1-2 hole, but delivered with a clutch two-run single up the middle to make it 2-0.
Like pretty much every other Dodger game this year, the last few innings were nail biters. Chris Capuano was lifted two outs in the seventh and a runner on first. Josh Lindblom has been money all year, and he got Jesus Flores to fly out.
Lindblom stayed on and got through the eighth with a couple of strikeouts. Now Don Mattingly had another decision to make - should he stick with the suddenly ineffective Javy Guerra, or give Kenley Jansen a crack at it?
Jansen would be the answer, and he started off by walking Adam LaRoche on four straight. After Xavier Nady got to a 2-0 count, Jansen mercifully settled down to strike him out. Chad Tracy struck out pinch-hitting, then Bryce Harper drew a walk on a full count. Flores struck out swinging to end the game.
Capuano was fantastic in this one, going 6 2/3 innings for three hits, no runs, two walks, and nine strikeouts. He's gotten a little better with each start, thanks to a combination of pounding the inside part of the plate to righties, and off speed stuff. He's now 2-1 with a 2.73 ERA and 1.21 WHIP. I love the way he battles, and he's getting great results because of it.
Lindblom continues to turn heads, as he's gone from possible demotion to a major threat in close games. He's given up only one run in 13 2/3 innings (0.66 ERA), and has 11 strikeouts. Mattingly will ride him while he's hot, especially since Matt Guerrier and Todd Coffey are hurt, and Mike MacDougal is kind of all over the place.
It's good to see Loney be the one who got the game-winning hit, as he again is struggling to get going. It seems like every time he looks like he's about to fall apart, he reminds you why he can be a good hitter. Granted, he's only hitting .227, and has expressed frustration at being platooned with Juan Rivera. There's really only one solution for him to play everyday, and it's simple: be a more consistent hitter. The playing time will then take care of itself.
The Dodgers definitely made a statement with this sweep, as the Nationals have some really good starting pitching. To be fair, it should be noted that they are a bit banged up with Ryan Zimmerman on the DL and Jayson Werth missing this game with a migraine. Brad Lidge is hurt too, but he stinks anyway. When they get their hitting even somewhat figured out, they're going to be a playoff contender. If they don't, then they'll waste all of that good pitching.
Up next is a trip to Colorado for three starting on Monday. Those games are always an adventure. A win would get the Dodgers 11 games over .500 for month of April. Even with a loss, it's still an incredible start. Aaron Harang will take on Juan Nicasio.
James Loney's two-run single in the sixth held up the rest of the way, as the Dodgers beat the Nationals again, 2-0. That's now three sweeps this young season for L.A., as they improved their record to an NL-best 16-6.
Much like the other two games in this series, there wasn't a big margin of error for each team. In fact, the Dodgers won three straight by a combined score of only 9-5. That's a normal game over in the American League. In this league, that passes as an entire series.
The bats were silent through five innings. Both teams really only had one scoring opportunity. Ian Desmond doubled leading off the fourth, then advanced to third on a bunt. A couple strikeouts later killed that threat. Matt Treanor singled with an out in the fifth and also moved up on a bunt, but Tony Gwynn popped up with two down.
Then came the sixth, and the Dodgers finally broke through. Gio Gonzalez was pitching beautifully up to this point, but was his own worst enemy here. With one out, Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and Juan Uribe all drew walks. Loney came up in a big spot, and found himself in a 1-2 hole, but delivered with a clutch two-run single up the middle to make it 2-0.
Like pretty much every other Dodger game this year, the last few innings were nail biters. Chris Capuano was lifted two outs in the seventh and a runner on first. Josh Lindblom has been money all year, and he got Jesus Flores to fly out.
Lindblom stayed on and got through the eighth with a couple of strikeouts. Now Don Mattingly had another decision to make - should he stick with the suddenly ineffective Javy Guerra, or give Kenley Jansen a crack at it?
Jansen would be the answer, and he started off by walking Adam LaRoche on four straight. After Xavier Nady got to a 2-0 count, Jansen mercifully settled down to strike him out. Chad Tracy struck out pinch-hitting, then Bryce Harper drew a walk on a full count. Flores struck out swinging to end the game.
Capuano was fantastic in this one, going 6 2/3 innings for three hits, no runs, two walks, and nine strikeouts. He's gotten a little better with each start, thanks to a combination of pounding the inside part of the plate to righties, and off speed stuff. He's now 2-1 with a 2.73 ERA and 1.21 WHIP. I love the way he battles, and he's getting great results because of it.
Lindblom continues to turn heads, as he's gone from possible demotion to a major threat in close games. He's given up only one run in 13 2/3 innings (0.66 ERA), and has 11 strikeouts. Mattingly will ride him while he's hot, especially since Matt Guerrier and Todd Coffey are hurt, and Mike MacDougal is kind of all over the place.
It's good to see Loney be the one who got the game-winning hit, as he again is struggling to get going. It seems like every time he looks like he's about to fall apart, he reminds you why he can be a good hitter. Granted, he's only hitting .227, and has expressed frustration at being platooned with Juan Rivera. There's really only one solution for him to play everyday, and it's simple: be a more consistent hitter. The playing time will then take care of itself.
The Dodgers definitely made a statement with this sweep, as the Nationals have some really good starting pitching. To be fair, it should be noted that they are a bit banged up with Ryan Zimmerman on the DL and Jayson Werth missing this game with a migraine. Brad Lidge is hurt too, but he stinks anyway. When they get their hitting even somewhat figured out, they're going to be a playoff contender. If they don't, then they'll waste all of that good pitching.
Up next is a trip to Colorado for three starting on Monday. Those games are always an adventure. A win would get the Dodgers 11 games over .500 for month of April. Even with a loss, it's still an incredible start. Aaron Harang will take on Juan Nicasio.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Kemp's walk-off spoils Harper's debut
Bryce Harper showed why he is the player of the future with a double, RBI, and a cannon of an arm in the outfield.
Matt Kemp showed why is he the best player right now... and for years to come.
After the Dodgers scored two runs to tie the game in the ninth, Kemp blasted a solo shot leading off the 10th to get another win over the Nationals, 4-3. The Dodgers are now the first to 15 wins in the National League.
This was a game that featured a little of everything, as Stephen Strasburg and Chad Billingsley matched each other pitch for pitch through most of the game. In fact, both ended up with identical lines of seven innings, five hits, and one run. Strasburg won the strikeout battle 9-6.
Adam LaRoche homered on Friday night for the Nats, and he did so once again to start the seventh. His laser shot to right gave them a 1-0 lead. With Ryan Zimmerman on the DL and very little power elsewhere, they'll need him to do much more of that going forward.
In the bottom of the frame, the Dodgers got it right back. Jerry Hairston, Jr., who already made a terrific diving catch for a double play earlier in the game, was beaned leading off. James Loney bounced one that Danny Espinosa booted to reach on the error. Juan Uribe struck out, but A.J. Ellis plated a run with a single, thanks to Hairston gutting it out and knocking the ball away from catcher Wilson Ramos on the slide.
A bit lost in the Kemp hysteria at the end was another rough ninth inning from Javy Guerra. Granted, it was Scott Elbert who made a bad 0-2 pitch to allow LaRoche to reach on a single leading off. But, Guerra was brought in an out later to put out the fire, and once again he made it worse. Espinosa singled and Harper's first career RBI made it 2-1. Ramos hit an RBI single next to push it to 3-1.
Things weren't looking good for the Dodgers, as the bottom of their order was due up against the flame throwing Henry Rodriguez, who continually touched triple digits on the gun. His own wildness, however, would be his undoing.
Mark Ellis singled leading off and went to second on a wild pitch. Loney singled, and Uribe's ground rule double made it 3-2. The other Ellis struck out for one down, and Adam Kennedy then pinch-hit in the pitcher's spot. All he could do was bounce one to first, and for God knows what reason, Loney sprinted for home and was out by 12 miles.
Sure enough, another wild pitch to Dee Gordon allowed Uribe to sprint home to tie the game at three. Gordon soon reached on a strikeout with a wild pitch, but Tony Gwynn's liner was gloved at first to send it into extras.
Jamey Wright did a wonderful job in getting the Nats in order to set the plate for Kemp. On a 1-2 count against Tom Gorzelanny, Kemp deposited it over the wall in center, and that was all she wrote.
Kemp struggled at the plate for most of the game, as Strasburg struck him out twice. He managed a walk and stolen base off of Tyler Clippard in the eighth, so perhaps that helped give him some momentum back. Whatever the case, he swung the bat like the man he is to again save his best for last. Amazing.
The Dodgers are now 8-3 in one-run games, which goes to show they are getting big hits at the right time. They could've easily rolled over both when Strasburg was on the mound and after falling behind in the ninth, but they kept battling. That's what's been so much fun about these guys so far this season. They keep eyeballs glued to the TV set until the end.
As for Harper, he gave everyone a taste of just how good he's going to be, and fast. He has incredible bat speed, a great arm, and is very fast. It's hard not to like him. Say what you want about his perceived arrogance, but he's going to be a star in no time. Maybe the Dodgers should be thankful they at least got him out twice.
A sweep would be huge, and that's exactly what the Dodgers will go for on Sunday. It'll be up to Chris Capuano, who will look to improve to 3-0. He'll be opposed by another great, young starter for the Nats, Gio Gonzalez.
Matt Kemp showed why is he the best player right now... and for years to come.
After the Dodgers scored two runs to tie the game in the ninth, Kemp blasted a solo shot leading off the 10th to get another win over the Nationals, 4-3. The Dodgers are now the first to 15 wins in the National League.
This was a game that featured a little of everything, as Stephen Strasburg and Chad Billingsley matched each other pitch for pitch through most of the game. In fact, both ended up with identical lines of seven innings, five hits, and one run. Strasburg won the strikeout battle 9-6.
Adam LaRoche homered on Friday night for the Nats, and he did so once again to start the seventh. His laser shot to right gave them a 1-0 lead. With Ryan Zimmerman on the DL and very little power elsewhere, they'll need him to do much more of that going forward.
In the bottom of the frame, the Dodgers got it right back. Jerry Hairston, Jr., who already made a terrific diving catch for a double play earlier in the game, was beaned leading off. James Loney bounced one that Danny Espinosa booted to reach on the error. Juan Uribe struck out, but A.J. Ellis plated a run with a single, thanks to Hairston gutting it out and knocking the ball away from catcher Wilson Ramos on the slide.
A bit lost in the Kemp hysteria at the end was another rough ninth inning from Javy Guerra. Granted, it was Scott Elbert who made a bad 0-2 pitch to allow LaRoche to reach on a single leading off. But, Guerra was brought in an out later to put out the fire, and once again he made it worse. Espinosa singled and Harper's first career RBI made it 2-1. Ramos hit an RBI single next to push it to 3-1.
Things weren't looking good for the Dodgers, as the bottom of their order was due up against the flame throwing Henry Rodriguez, who continually touched triple digits on the gun. His own wildness, however, would be his undoing.
Mark Ellis singled leading off and went to second on a wild pitch. Loney singled, and Uribe's ground rule double made it 3-2. The other Ellis struck out for one down, and Adam Kennedy then pinch-hit in the pitcher's spot. All he could do was bounce one to first, and for God knows what reason, Loney sprinted for home and was out by 12 miles.
Sure enough, another wild pitch to Dee Gordon allowed Uribe to sprint home to tie the game at three. Gordon soon reached on a strikeout with a wild pitch, but Tony Gwynn's liner was gloved at first to send it into extras.
Jamey Wright did a wonderful job in getting the Nats in order to set the plate for Kemp. On a 1-2 count against Tom Gorzelanny, Kemp deposited it over the wall in center, and that was all she wrote.
Kemp struggled at the plate for most of the game, as Strasburg struck him out twice. He managed a walk and stolen base off of Tyler Clippard in the eighth, so perhaps that helped give him some momentum back. Whatever the case, he swung the bat like the man he is to again save his best for last. Amazing.
The Dodgers are now 8-3 in one-run games, which goes to show they are getting big hits at the right time. They could've easily rolled over both when Strasburg was on the mound and after falling behind in the ninth, but they kept battling. That's what's been so much fun about these guys so far this season. They keep eyeballs glued to the TV set until the end.
As for Harper, he gave everyone a taste of just how good he's going to be, and fast. He has incredible bat speed, a great arm, and is very fast. It's hard not to like him. Say what you want about his perceived arrogance, but he's going to be a star in no time. Maybe the Dodgers should be thankful they at least got him out twice.
A sweep would be huge, and that's exactly what the Dodgers will go for on Sunday. It'll be up to Chris Capuano, who will look to improve to 3-0. He'll be opposed by another great, young starter for the Nats, Gio Gonzalez.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Kershaw goes 8 strong for win
The opening game of a matchup between the National League's two best teams went the Dodgers' way on Friday, as they were able to down the Nationals, 3-2. Both teams now sport identical 14-6 records, just above the Braves and Cardinals at 13-7.
It's no surprise to anyone who follows the Dodgers that a big part of their win came from doing damage in the first inning. With two outs, Matt Kemp hit a sharp single into left. Andre Ethier had four homers at this point, but none against lefties. That changed, as he took southpaw Ross Detwiler deep for a two-run blast, and it was 2-0. The runs also gave the Dodgers a 21-5 advantage in the opening frame this year.
With Clayton Kershaw cruising, the Dodgers tacked on an extra run in the fourth that would eventually pay off big time. As Vin Scully described so well at the end of the game, "the left hook and right cross" of Kemp and Ethier started it with singles. Jerry Hairston, Jr. sacrificed them over to scoring position, but James Loney grounded out for two down. Juan Uribe was just able to beat out an infield single for the RBI and 3-0 lead.
Somehow Kershaw worked around two straight errors in the fifth by Dee Gordon and Loney on routine grounders that were thrown away. In the sixth, however, he wouldn't be as lucky. Jayson Werth walked leading off. Adam LaRoche then took a bad 0-2 breaking ball that stayed up out to right field for a two-run homer, and it was now 3-2.
The Dodgers had chances in the seventh and eighth to get more runs, but came away with nothing instead. In the seventh, Kemp found himself up with Kershaw on third and Ellis on second with two outs, but grounded out. The next inning, Uribe ripped a double to right in which pinch-runner Tony Gwynn tried to score on, but was denied by a blocked plate and was called out.
Kershaw got through the heart of the order and finished with 113 pitches in the eighth, and once again, the Dodgers found themselves in a save situation. Javy Guerra got the night off, probably for a combination of mental (two straight loses) and physical (liner off the face) rest.
So, Kenley Jansen was given the shot, and came within inches of blowing it himself when Danny Espinosa just missed a homer to right. After two straight liners to Kemp in center and a beaning to Chad Tracy, Jesus Flores struck out to end the game. It was Jansen's first save of the season to go along with five holds.
The Nationals just lost Ryan Zimmerman to the DL with a bad right shoulder, so they're not going into this series with all of their ammo. Still, they're no longer a pushover by any means, as their starting pitching has been incredible so far. It's a good test for the Dodgers just like the Braves series, so a win is always a good thing.
Kershaw put up his usual awesome numbers, even on a night he wasn't quite as sharp as he could be. He lasted eight innings for three hits, two runs, one walk, and six strikeouts. The homer by LaRoche was obviously his biggest blow, but he shut 'em down the rest of the way. He improved to 2-0 with a 1.78 ERA and 0.89 WHIP.
Four of the Dodgers' seven hits came from the "left hook and right cross" combo, not that anyone should be surprised by that. Uribe had two himself. The funny thing is, he actually has five multi-hit games this season, good for a .275 average. Considering he was hitting .211 as recently as April 22, we'll all take it.
Hopefully Guerra is able to come back soon, as he's still the closer according to Don Mattingly. Jansen got the job done on this night to his credit. Still, and I know this will seem picky, but he worries me a bit. He's a power pitcher, which works quite often. But I can't help but think he's one fastball down the middle away from giving up a big run. He needs to keep developing his cutter and slider so he's not relying on just the pure heat so much.
Another guy who's worrying me is Gordon, who went 0-for-4 and committed his sixth error already. He's young, he's got blazing speed, and is just an electric player when he's clicking. Right now he's not, as his average has dipped to .224 with only five walks all season. I have to wonder if he'll be dropped in the order soon, maybe just temporarily. He's definitely pressing now and he's having some bad at-bats because of it.
Those negative things aside, the Dodgers have won 14 of the first 20, which is just awesome considering nobody thought they'd come close to winning the division. So far they are showing that their hot end to last season has carried over, and maybe, just maybe, they actually are a good team and aren't just getting lucky over and over. We'll see if the "baseball experts" agree or not.
Saturday night will be a fun one in Dodger Stadium. Chad Billingsley will take on young stud Stephen Strasburg. But what's being talked about even more is the Major League debut of Bryce Harper, who replaced Zimmerman on the big club. It would have been something else if Kershaw somehow got this start, but it wasn't meant to be. Regardless, this will be a great game to watch for both sides.
It's no surprise to anyone who follows the Dodgers that a big part of their win came from doing damage in the first inning. With two outs, Matt Kemp hit a sharp single into left. Andre Ethier had four homers at this point, but none against lefties. That changed, as he took southpaw Ross Detwiler deep for a two-run blast, and it was 2-0. The runs also gave the Dodgers a 21-5 advantage in the opening frame this year.
With Clayton Kershaw cruising, the Dodgers tacked on an extra run in the fourth that would eventually pay off big time. As Vin Scully described so well at the end of the game, "the left hook and right cross" of Kemp and Ethier started it with singles. Jerry Hairston, Jr. sacrificed them over to scoring position, but James Loney grounded out for two down. Juan Uribe was just able to beat out an infield single for the RBI and 3-0 lead.
Somehow Kershaw worked around two straight errors in the fifth by Dee Gordon and Loney on routine grounders that were thrown away. In the sixth, however, he wouldn't be as lucky. Jayson Werth walked leading off. Adam LaRoche then took a bad 0-2 breaking ball that stayed up out to right field for a two-run homer, and it was now 3-2.
The Dodgers had chances in the seventh and eighth to get more runs, but came away with nothing instead. In the seventh, Kemp found himself up with Kershaw on third and Ellis on second with two outs, but grounded out. The next inning, Uribe ripped a double to right in which pinch-runner Tony Gwynn tried to score on, but was denied by a blocked plate and was called out.
Kershaw got through the heart of the order and finished with 113 pitches in the eighth, and once again, the Dodgers found themselves in a save situation. Javy Guerra got the night off, probably for a combination of mental (two straight loses) and physical (liner off the face) rest.
So, Kenley Jansen was given the shot, and came within inches of blowing it himself when Danny Espinosa just missed a homer to right. After two straight liners to Kemp in center and a beaning to Chad Tracy, Jesus Flores struck out to end the game. It was Jansen's first save of the season to go along with five holds.
The Nationals just lost Ryan Zimmerman to the DL with a bad right shoulder, so they're not going into this series with all of their ammo. Still, they're no longer a pushover by any means, as their starting pitching has been incredible so far. It's a good test for the Dodgers just like the Braves series, so a win is always a good thing.
Kershaw put up his usual awesome numbers, even on a night he wasn't quite as sharp as he could be. He lasted eight innings for three hits, two runs, one walk, and six strikeouts. The homer by LaRoche was obviously his biggest blow, but he shut 'em down the rest of the way. He improved to 2-0 with a 1.78 ERA and 0.89 WHIP.
Four of the Dodgers' seven hits came from the "left hook and right cross" combo, not that anyone should be surprised by that. Uribe had two himself. The funny thing is, he actually has five multi-hit games this season, good for a .275 average. Considering he was hitting .211 as recently as April 22, we'll all take it.
Hopefully Guerra is able to come back soon, as he's still the closer according to Don Mattingly. Jansen got the job done on this night to his credit. Still, and I know this will seem picky, but he worries me a bit. He's a power pitcher, which works quite often. But I can't help but think he's one fastball down the middle away from giving up a big run. He needs to keep developing his cutter and slider so he's not relying on just the pure heat so much.
Another guy who's worrying me is Gordon, who went 0-for-4 and committed his sixth error already. He's young, he's got blazing speed, and is just an electric player when he's clicking. Right now he's not, as his average has dipped to .224 with only five walks all season. I have to wonder if he'll be dropped in the order soon, maybe just temporarily. He's definitely pressing now and he's having some bad at-bats because of it.
Those negative things aside, the Dodgers have won 14 of the first 20, which is just awesome considering nobody thought they'd come close to winning the division. So far they are showing that their hot end to last season has carried over, and maybe, just maybe, they actually are a good team and aren't just getting lucky over and over. We'll see if the "baseball experts" agree or not.
Saturday night will be a fun one in Dodger Stadium. Chad Billingsley will take on young stud Stephen Strasburg. But what's being talked about even more is the Major League debut of Bryce Harper, who replaced Zimmerman on the big club. It would have been something else if Kershaw somehow got this start, but it wasn't meant to be. Regardless, this will be a great game to watch for both sides.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
A forgettable night for Guerra
It's safe to say that Wednesday night, April 25, 2012 is not a night Javy Guerra would like to remember.
Guerra suffered a blown save... and a blow to the face on a line drive as the Braves used a three-run ninth to beat the Dodgers, 4-2. In an anticipated matchup for the Dodgers this early in the season, they dropped two of three to their old National League rival.
The pitching matchup was a good one, as wily veteran Ted Lilly took on young gun Brandon Beachy. Both did not disappoint, as blanks were thrown the first three innings.
In the fourth, the Braves scored first. After a fantastic diving grab at short by Dee Gordon, Freddy Freeman doubled to center. A groundout got him to third, and he came around to score on Dan Uggla's RBI single, making it 1-0.
The Dodgers weren't doing a lick through four, but Tony Gwynn finally got something going in the fifth. He singled leading off and stole second. A single by A.J. Ellis put runners on the corners, and Lilly's sacrifice put two in scoring position. Gordon grounded out, but it was good enough for the game-tying RBI at 1-1.
There had been a threat of rain all day, and in the sixth, it started to show itself. That didn't phase Mr. Matt Kemp, as he led off and blasted his ML-leading 10th jack of the season to make it 2-1. He's still easily ahead in average at .449, and is just edging teammate Andre Ethier in RBIs at 23 to 22. Add it all up, and there's another Triple Crown run in him. So far, so good.
What wasn't so good was Guerra. The formula was working for awhile, as Lilly was dominant through seven, and Kenley Jansen got it done in the eighth. For Guerra, however, he made it two straight nights of taking the L.
Martin Prado led off the ninth with a liner that was gloved by Either in right. Freeman is the reigning NL Player of the Week, finally unseating Kemp, and his single started it all. Then came Brian McCann, who ripped a fastball right off of Guerra's face for a hit. I'm not sure how, but he popped right back up and stayed in the game, to the amazement of us all.
Unfortunately, the results didn't get any better. Three straight RBI singles came next from Uggla, Chipper Jones, and Jason Heyward, and just like the that Braves were up 4-2. Josh Lindblom came in to put out the fire, but the Dodgers went down in order against Craig Kimbrel to end the game.
First things first, and that's the health of Guerra. For someone who was beaned in the face, he avoided a lot of potentially bad news by passing the post-game concussion test. I don't care how he pitched - his health is most important, and it appears he'll be fine.
On the pitching side of things, it's certainly not encouraging to watch your closer crumble two straight nights against a good team. There were whispers about Jansen taking over that role coming into this season, and that will only now get louder. Don Mattingly did say after the game that Guerra will still be the closer, which is expected considering he doesn't want any drama right now.
Lilly did all he could, as he went seven innings for three hits, one run, one walk, and two strikeouts. He's been outstanding in his three starts this season with a 0.90 ERA and 0.85 WHIP. Those numbers won't always stay that way, but I think he's proven that his strong end to last year has only carried over.
The Dodgers can somewhat be encouraged that they had a chance to win all three of these games. Their two losses have happened late, and their one win was a no-doubter. Because they pounded on lesser teams this year (Padres, Pirates, Astros), it's a little disappointing that they didn't win either series against the Brewers and Braves. But, it's still very early, so it's hard to make a big deal about it either way.
Thursday will be an off day, which is a good thing as guys like Guerra, Mike MacDougal, and Juan Rivera can all rest up after dealing with various ailments. Then the Nationals come to town for three, and they're playing very well this year at 14-4, tops in the NL East. Friday night's game won't disappoint, as Clayton Kershaw takes on Ross Detwiler.
Guerra suffered a blown save... and a blow to the face on a line drive as the Braves used a three-run ninth to beat the Dodgers, 4-2. In an anticipated matchup for the Dodgers this early in the season, they dropped two of three to their old National League rival.
The pitching matchup was a good one, as wily veteran Ted Lilly took on young gun Brandon Beachy. Both did not disappoint, as blanks were thrown the first three innings.
In the fourth, the Braves scored first. After a fantastic diving grab at short by Dee Gordon, Freddy Freeman doubled to center. A groundout got him to third, and he came around to score on Dan Uggla's RBI single, making it 1-0.
The Dodgers weren't doing a lick through four, but Tony Gwynn finally got something going in the fifth. He singled leading off and stole second. A single by A.J. Ellis put runners on the corners, and Lilly's sacrifice put two in scoring position. Gordon grounded out, but it was good enough for the game-tying RBI at 1-1.
There had been a threat of rain all day, and in the sixth, it started to show itself. That didn't phase Mr. Matt Kemp, as he led off and blasted his ML-leading 10th jack of the season to make it 2-1. He's still easily ahead in average at .449, and is just edging teammate Andre Ethier in RBIs at 23 to 22. Add it all up, and there's another Triple Crown run in him. So far, so good.
What wasn't so good was Guerra. The formula was working for awhile, as Lilly was dominant through seven, and Kenley Jansen got it done in the eighth. For Guerra, however, he made it two straight nights of taking the L.
Martin Prado led off the ninth with a liner that was gloved by Either in right. Freeman is the reigning NL Player of the Week, finally unseating Kemp, and his single started it all. Then came Brian McCann, who ripped a fastball right off of Guerra's face for a hit. I'm not sure how, but he popped right back up and stayed in the game, to the amazement of us all.
Unfortunately, the results didn't get any better. Three straight RBI singles came next from Uggla, Chipper Jones, and Jason Heyward, and just like the that Braves were up 4-2. Josh Lindblom came in to put out the fire, but the Dodgers went down in order against Craig Kimbrel to end the game.
First things first, and that's the health of Guerra. For someone who was beaned in the face, he avoided a lot of potentially bad news by passing the post-game concussion test. I don't care how he pitched - his health is most important, and it appears he'll be fine.
On the pitching side of things, it's certainly not encouraging to watch your closer crumble two straight nights against a good team. There were whispers about Jansen taking over that role coming into this season, and that will only now get louder. Don Mattingly did say after the game that Guerra will still be the closer, which is expected considering he doesn't want any drama right now.
Lilly did all he could, as he went seven innings for three hits, one run, one walk, and two strikeouts. He's been outstanding in his three starts this season with a 0.90 ERA and 0.85 WHIP. Those numbers won't always stay that way, but I think he's proven that his strong end to last year has only carried over.
The Dodgers can somewhat be encouraged that they had a chance to win all three of these games. Their two losses have happened late, and their one win was a no-doubter. Because they pounded on lesser teams this year (Padres, Pirates, Astros), it's a little disappointing that they didn't win either series against the Brewers and Braves. But, it's still very early, so it's hard to make a big deal about it either way.
Thursday will be an off day, which is a good thing as guys like Guerra, Mike MacDougal, and Juan Rivera can all rest up after dealing with various ailments. Then the Nationals come to town for three, and they're playing very well this year at 14-4, tops in the NL East. Friday night's game won't disappoint, as Clayton Kershaw takes on Ross Detwiler.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Injuries mount as Dodgers fall to Braves
The losses were felt all over the place on Tuesday night. Before the game, Matt Guerrier was placed on the 15-day DL with a sore elbow. During the game, Juan Rivera (hamstring) and Aaron Harang (foot) both had to leave early. And after the game, the Dodgers were handed their first home loss of the season to the Braves, 4-3.
Everything started off well enough in the first. As has been the case all season, the Dodgers pounced in inning #1. Mark Ellis singled with an out. Matt Kemp flew out, but Rivera picked him up by clobbering a ball into the left field pavilion for a 2-0. It was Rivera's first longball of the season.
Harang was rolling until the fifth. Celebrating his 40th birthday, Chipper Jones led off with a homer to right to make it 2-1. Jayson Heyward and Tyler Pastornicky followed with singles. An out later, Martin Prado tied the game up with a fielder's choice, and we were back to square one
Both teams tacked on a run in the sixth. Harang stayed in the game, even though he would later admit his foot was only getting worse thanks to a foul ball that struck it early on. Brian McCann singled and Dan Uggla walked, but a double play soon put McCann at third. Heyward was walked intentionally to pitch to Pastornicky, yet a wild pitch brought home a run to make it 3-2.
Dee Gordon and Ellis immediately started the comeback, as they singled to start the bottom of the inning. In an odd play, Gordon eventually scored on Kemp's grounder and Uggla's error. But, Kemp was called out for rounding first too much for two out. Andre Ethier flew out to end the inning.
The score remained deadlocked until the ninth. Javy Guerra was called upon to keep it that way, but it wasn't meant to be. Pastornicky again singled leading off. Now with two outs, Prado hit a long fly ball to Kemp in center that was just out of his reach for the RBI triple, and the Braves led 4-3.
The Dodgers put a couple of men on in the ninth from a single by Jerry Hairston, Jr. and a walk by A.J. Ellis. Tony Gwynn struck out swinging to end it and give Craig Kimbrel his sixth save.
The injuries to Rivera and Harang don't appear serious, but it's still a case of bad timing considering Guerrier was just placed on the DL. Rivera is about the only other threat besides Kemp and Ethier to drive in runs, and he's versatile because he can play outfield and first base, so he'll be missed if he's gone for an extended period. Hopefully not.
Harang was putting together a solid start until fading late. The foot issue definitely didn't help things. He went six innings for six hits, three runs, four walks, and two strikeouts. He's now 1-1 this season, but with a 5.16 ERA and 1.63 WHIP. Those numbers will eventually come down as he builds up his arm strength. We're not talking All-Star numbers here, but something in line for a respectable 4-5 starter at least.
Guerra has been asked to do a lot already this season, and for the most part he's been great. Tuesday night was a bump in the road, as he just barely wasn't able to keep the game tied. Still, though, he's 7-for-8 in save situations with a 2.89 ERA, so one bad night isn't going to ruin him.
Thursday night is the rubber match, and it's a battle of good pitchers. Ted Lilly and his 0.69 ERA will take on Brandon Beachy and his 0.47 ERA. Basically, it's old school vs. new school. A win by the Dodgers would be another positive sign early this season in winning a series against a perennial contender.
Everything started off well enough in the first. As has been the case all season, the Dodgers pounced in inning #1. Mark Ellis singled with an out. Matt Kemp flew out, but Rivera picked him up by clobbering a ball into the left field pavilion for a 2-0. It was Rivera's first longball of the season.
Harang was rolling until the fifth. Celebrating his 40th birthday, Chipper Jones led off with a homer to right to make it 2-1. Jayson Heyward and Tyler Pastornicky followed with singles. An out later, Martin Prado tied the game up with a fielder's choice, and we were back to square one
Both teams tacked on a run in the sixth. Harang stayed in the game, even though he would later admit his foot was only getting worse thanks to a foul ball that struck it early on. Brian McCann singled and Dan Uggla walked, but a double play soon put McCann at third. Heyward was walked intentionally to pitch to Pastornicky, yet a wild pitch brought home a run to make it 3-2.
Dee Gordon and Ellis immediately started the comeback, as they singled to start the bottom of the inning. In an odd play, Gordon eventually scored on Kemp's grounder and Uggla's error. But, Kemp was called out for rounding first too much for two out. Andre Ethier flew out to end the inning.
The score remained deadlocked until the ninth. Javy Guerra was called upon to keep it that way, but it wasn't meant to be. Pastornicky again singled leading off. Now with two outs, Prado hit a long fly ball to Kemp in center that was just out of his reach for the RBI triple, and the Braves led 4-3.
The Dodgers put a couple of men on in the ninth from a single by Jerry Hairston, Jr. and a walk by A.J. Ellis. Tony Gwynn struck out swinging to end it and give Craig Kimbrel his sixth save.
The injuries to Rivera and Harang don't appear serious, but it's still a case of bad timing considering Guerrier was just placed on the DL. Rivera is about the only other threat besides Kemp and Ethier to drive in runs, and he's versatile because he can play outfield and first base, so he'll be missed if he's gone for an extended period. Hopefully not.
Harang was putting together a solid start until fading late. The foot issue definitely didn't help things. He went six innings for six hits, three runs, four walks, and two strikeouts. He's now 1-1 this season, but with a 5.16 ERA and 1.63 WHIP. Those numbers will eventually come down as he builds up his arm strength. We're not talking All-Star numbers here, but something in line for a respectable 4-5 starter at least.
Guerra has been asked to do a lot already this season, and for the most part he's been great. Tuesday night was a bump in the road, as he just barely wasn't able to keep the game tied. Still, though, he's 7-for-8 in save situations with a 2.89 ERA, so one bad night isn't going to ruin him.
Thursday night is the rubber match, and it's a battle of good pitchers. Ted Lilly and his 0.69 ERA will take on Brandon Beachy and his 0.47 ERA. Basically, it's old school vs. new school. A win by the Dodgers would be another positive sign early this season in winning a series against a perennial contender.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
There was a Juan Uribe sighting
If you were to quiz people on which current Dodger has the most World Series championships, you might either get some clueless looks, or claim it's a trick question. When you find out the answer is Juan Uribe (two), you might have forgotten he was even on the team thanks to numerous injuries, and a .204 average last year and .211 this year.
Well, Uribe is still starting at third base, and Monday night he finally showed up.
Uribe went 4-for-4 with three RBIs, and the Dodgers won the opener of a three-game set with the Braves, 7-2. The Dodgers are now a flawless 7-0 at home this year as they begin their six-game homestand.
Chris Capuano took the hill for the Dodgers, and he was immediately in some trouble. Michael Bourn walked leading off, Freddy Freeman singled, and Matt Diaz walked to load the bases with two outs. On a big 3-2 pitch, Capuano went off-speed to get Jayson Heyward swinging to end the threat.
Like a good team does, the Dodgers took advantage of the momentum. Dee Gordon singled and stole his ninth base. A flyout to right got Gordon to third, and Matt Kemp took a walk. Andre Ethier found just enough room to bloop an RBI single into center, and it was 1-0.
Old Dodger David Ross smacked a solo shot leading off the second, and the score was tied. The Dodgers grabbed the lead right back, as James Loney started it with a double. Uribe got his first hit wth an RBI single, making it 2-1. An RBI single by A.J. Ellis increased it to 3-1.
After Capuano again stranded a couple of baserunners in the fourth, the Dodgers started to add to their lead. And again, it started on hits by Loney and Uribe, this time a couple of singles. Ellis collected another RBI on a single to make it 4-1. With Livan Hernandez now on the mound (yes, he is still pitching 73 years later), a sac-fly RBI by Gordon pushed it to 5-1.
Josh Lindblom came in to pitch the eighth, but he immediately watched Dan Uggla launch a solo shot to make it 5-2. And just as they've done all game, the Dodgers responded. Kemp and Ethier both singled leading off, and went to third on Adam Kennedy's sacrifice. Loney was walked to load 'em up, and Uribe found enough room in right for a two-run single, closing the scoring at 7-2.
Scott Elbert went through the Braves in order in the non-save situation.
The story of the night was obviously Uribe, who had to feel a whole lot of weight coming off his shoulders with this performance. It's not like he was crushing the ball, but he played small ball like the rest of the team, who's only extra-base hit out of 15 as Loney's double. That's a lot of singles, but it's not too surprising considering Kemp and Ethier are the only true power threats.
Uribe did go 3-for-3 against the Pirates earlier this season, but he had a bigger impact in this game. Only twice last year did he have three hits in a game, which helps explain his pathetic average. You've got to start somewhere, so hopefully he can build on this and be a bigger threat in the bottom part of the order. To his credit, he's played very solid defense all along, so this will only make him more complete.
As for Capuano, he's doing his part in the back end of the rotation with his third straight good start. This was his best one, as he lasted seven innings for six hits, one run, four walks, and five strikeouts. He lives a little dangerously with all those baserunners, but he's also among the league leaders in strikeouts with his buddies Aaron Harang and Clayton Kershaw at 20. He's a veteran hurler, and he's showing how to get big outs when needed.
The Dodgers will look to grab another one on Tuesday night when Harang takes the hill. He'll be opposed by Mike Minor, whose numbers continue to get better in his third season.
Well, Uribe is still starting at third base, and Monday night he finally showed up.
Uribe went 4-for-4 with three RBIs, and the Dodgers won the opener of a three-game set with the Braves, 7-2. The Dodgers are now a flawless 7-0 at home this year as they begin their six-game homestand.
Chris Capuano took the hill for the Dodgers, and he was immediately in some trouble. Michael Bourn walked leading off, Freddy Freeman singled, and Matt Diaz walked to load the bases with two outs. On a big 3-2 pitch, Capuano went off-speed to get Jayson Heyward swinging to end the threat.
Like a good team does, the Dodgers took advantage of the momentum. Dee Gordon singled and stole his ninth base. A flyout to right got Gordon to third, and Matt Kemp took a walk. Andre Ethier found just enough room to bloop an RBI single into center, and it was 1-0.
Old Dodger David Ross smacked a solo shot leading off the second, and the score was tied. The Dodgers grabbed the lead right back, as James Loney started it with a double. Uribe got his first hit wth an RBI single, making it 2-1. An RBI single by A.J. Ellis increased it to 3-1.
After Capuano again stranded a couple of baserunners in the fourth, the Dodgers started to add to their lead. And again, it started on hits by Loney and Uribe, this time a couple of singles. Ellis collected another RBI on a single to make it 4-1. With Livan Hernandez now on the mound (yes, he is still pitching 73 years later), a sac-fly RBI by Gordon pushed it to 5-1.
Josh Lindblom came in to pitch the eighth, but he immediately watched Dan Uggla launch a solo shot to make it 5-2. And just as they've done all game, the Dodgers responded. Kemp and Ethier both singled leading off, and went to third on Adam Kennedy's sacrifice. Loney was walked to load 'em up, and Uribe found enough room in right for a two-run single, closing the scoring at 7-2.
Scott Elbert went through the Braves in order in the non-save situation.
The story of the night was obviously Uribe, who had to feel a whole lot of weight coming off his shoulders with this performance. It's not like he was crushing the ball, but he played small ball like the rest of the team, who's only extra-base hit out of 15 as Loney's double. That's a lot of singles, but it's not too surprising considering Kemp and Ethier are the only true power threats.
Uribe did go 3-for-3 against the Pirates earlier this season, but he had a bigger impact in this game. Only twice last year did he have three hits in a game, which helps explain his pathetic average. You've got to start somewhere, so hopefully he can build on this and be a bigger threat in the bottom part of the order. To his credit, he's played very solid defense all along, so this will only make him more complete.
As for Capuano, he's doing his part in the back end of the rotation with his third straight good start. This was his best one, as he lasted seven innings for six hits, one run, four walks, and five strikeouts. He lives a little dangerously with all those baserunners, but he's also among the league leaders in strikeouts with his buddies Aaron Harang and Clayton Kershaw at 20. He's a veteran hurler, and he's showing how to get big outs when needed.
The Dodgers will look to grab another one on Tuesday night when Harang takes the hill. He'll be opposed by Mike Minor, whose numbers continue to get better in his third season.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Sloppy Dodgers suffer a Houston beatdown
Sunday was getaway day in Houston, as the Dodgers were finishing up their road trip before heading back to LA for a six-game homestand.
Apparently somebody forgot to tell the Dodgers they had a game to play before departing.
The Dodgers committed three errors, Chad Billingsley was awful, and Jordan Schafer's grand slam helped the Astros cream the Dodgers, 12-0. Even with the loss, the Dodgers took two of three to win another series.
The defense let Billingsley down right away, as Juan Rivera's throwing error let Jed Lowrie reach in the first. Sure enough, instead of getting the 'Stros in order, Carlos Lee lifted a two-run homer with two down.
The second inning put the icing on the cake already. Chris Johnson singled leading off and Jason Castro walked. Jose Altuve flew out, and as Wandy Rodriguez was trying to bunt, Billingsley walked him instead to load the bases. Lowrie had an easy fly out for two out, but Schafer's granny was just out of the reach of Andre Ethier in right to make it 6-0.
The ugliness for Billingsley and the defense reached an even lower point in the fourth, as the Dodgers looked like they were mentally back in LA already. Castro hit a liner that was completely misjudged by Matt Kemp in center for a triple, even though Kemp knows he should've made the play. Following a walk to Altuve, Rodriguez hit a comebacker to Bills, who threw low to second and was dropped by Dee Gordon for an error.
A wild pitch let Schafer score to make it 8-0. Jamey Wright came in and gave up an RBI fielder's choice to J.D. Martinez to close the inning at 9-0.
Wright would go on to give up another run on a single by Castro in the fifth. The final two runs came in the eighth off of Mike MacDougal, who was terrible to say the least. Johnson and Altuve chipped in with RBI singles to mercifully end the scoring.
There's just not a whole lot of positive to say about this game... probably because nothing good happened for the Dodgers. The only other bad loss this year was to the Padres on Easter Sunday 8-4. But, this was a whitewashing from start to finish. No question about it.
Billingsley came into this game 2-0 with a 1.33 ERA and 0.69 WHIP. After a line of 3 1/3 innings for four hits, nine runs (five earned), four walks, and two strikeouts, he's now 2-1 with a 3.04 ERA and 0.93 WHIP. Like usual, the story with him is his control - he either has it or he doesn't. This game he didn't have it with four walks, and he got burned. The defense did him no favors, and that's not his fault, but he still wasn't sharp at all.
Someone else who wasn't sharp was MacDougal, who now sports a 7.71 ERA and 2.57 WHIP in six appearances. Last year he let hitters reach, but seemed to always make big pitches when he needed to. This year, not so much. He likes to live dangerously, and he's paying the price for it. The Dodgers need better middle relief, and he's playing himself right out of that role with numbers like those. Yuck.
Kemp looked human for the first time all year, as he went 0-for-3 with a strikeout, not to mention the misplayed fly ball in the fourth. He was lifted for Tony Gwynn in the sixth. It was a good move by Don Mattingly, as the game was already over and Kemp can now focus on the Braves and Nationals this upcoming week.
The Dodgers will get right back to work on Monday by welcoming the Braves for three. The Braves are playing some great ball themselves lately, as they've turned an 0-4 start into a current 10-6 mark. Do the math, and that's 10 wins in the last 12. Chris Capuano will look to slow them down as he takes the hill first.
Apparently somebody forgot to tell the Dodgers they had a game to play before departing.
The Dodgers committed three errors, Chad Billingsley was awful, and Jordan Schafer's grand slam helped the Astros cream the Dodgers, 12-0. Even with the loss, the Dodgers took two of three to win another series.
The defense let Billingsley down right away, as Juan Rivera's throwing error let Jed Lowrie reach in the first. Sure enough, instead of getting the 'Stros in order, Carlos Lee lifted a two-run homer with two down.
The second inning put the icing on the cake already. Chris Johnson singled leading off and Jason Castro walked. Jose Altuve flew out, and as Wandy Rodriguez was trying to bunt, Billingsley walked him instead to load the bases. Lowrie had an easy fly out for two out, but Schafer's granny was just out of the reach of Andre Ethier in right to make it 6-0.
The ugliness for Billingsley and the defense reached an even lower point in the fourth, as the Dodgers looked like they were mentally back in LA already. Castro hit a liner that was completely misjudged by Matt Kemp in center for a triple, even though Kemp knows he should've made the play. Following a walk to Altuve, Rodriguez hit a comebacker to Bills, who threw low to second and was dropped by Dee Gordon for an error.
A wild pitch let Schafer score to make it 8-0. Jamey Wright came in and gave up an RBI fielder's choice to J.D. Martinez to close the inning at 9-0.
Wright would go on to give up another run on a single by Castro in the fifth. The final two runs came in the eighth off of Mike MacDougal, who was terrible to say the least. Johnson and Altuve chipped in with RBI singles to mercifully end the scoring.
There's just not a whole lot of positive to say about this game... probably because nothing good happened for the Dodgers. The only other bad loss this year was to the Padres on Easter Sunday 8-4. But, this was a whitewashing from start to finish. No question about it.
Billingsley came into this game 2-0 with a 1.33 ERA and 0.69 WHIP. After a line of 3 1/3 innings for four hits, nine runs (five earned), four walks, and two strikeouts, he's now 2-1 with a 3.04 ERA and 0.93 WHIP. Like usual, the story with him is his control - he either has it or he doesn't. This game he didn't have it with four walks, and he got burned. The defense did him no favors, and that's not his fault, but he still wasn't sharp at all.
Someone else who wasn't sharp was MacDougal, who now sports a 7.71 ERA and 2.57 WHIP in six appearances. Last year he let hitters reach, but seemed to always make big pitches when he needed to. This year, not so much. He likes to live dangerously, and he's paying the price for it. The Dodgers need better middle relief, and he's playing himself right out of that role with numbers like those. Yuck.
Kemp looked human for the first time all year, as he went 0-for-3 with a strikeout, not to mention the misplayed fly ball in the fourth. He was lifted for Tony Gwynn in the sixth. It was a good move by Don Mattingly, as the game was already over and Kemp can now focus on the Braves and Nationals this upcoming week.
The Dodgers will get right back to work on Monday by welcoming the Braves for three. The Braves are playing some great ball themselves lately, as they've turned an 0-4 start into a current 10-6 mark. Do the math, and that's 10 wins in the last 12. Chris Capuano will look to slow them down as he takes the hill first.
Another homer from that guy, another gem from the other
If you looked at the lineup card before Saturday night's game in Houston, you saw that Matt Kemp was hitting in the third spot, and Clayton Kershaw was on the mound.
Fast forward to the end, and it's no surprise it was another Dodgers' victory.
Kemp crushed his ninth homer, the fastest through 15 games in Dodgers' history, and Kershaw went seven scoreless as the Dodgers cruised by the Astros, 5-1. At 12-3 now, the Dodgers are just continuing to get better and better each night.
The scoring started in the second. James Loney hasn't been helping his cause for being an everyday first baseman with another rough start, but he pulled a long solo shot to make it 1-0. Even with that hit, he's still only hitting .200, but you've got to start somewhere, right?
Kershaw wasn't being threatened too much, but neither was Kyle Weiland through five frames. In the sixth, however, it was Kemp who made Weiland pay. Dee Gordon bunted his way on with one out, then went to third on a bad pickoff attempt. Adam Kennedy popped up for two outs.
So now up came Kemp with two outs and first base open. Should he be pitched to? Well, I wouldn't think so, but with Andre Ethier hitting behind him, Weiland went after him. It was a big mistake, as he launched a two-run bomb to dead center to go up 3-0.
Speaking of Ethier, he added to the cause in the eighth. A rally started with two outs when the bases became loaded on a double by Gordon, and walks to Kennedy and Kemp. Ethier ripped a two-run single into right to push the lead up to 5-0.
Mike MacDougal was called upon to get through the eighth, but his old nemesis the walk got the best of him. A single by Justin Maxwell followed by walks to Jordan Schafer and Jose Altuve got him pulled with one out. Kenley Jansen walked a run in, but put out the fire right after that with two straight outs.
Jamey Wright continued his resurgence by going through the ninth in order to close it out.
After the game, Kershaw admitted he didn't feel like he had much control over his fastball. That's a scary though considering how good he was anyway. He lasted seven innings for three hits, no runs, two walks, and nine strikeouts. He finally got on the board with his first win after three straight no-decisions.
As for Kemp and Ethier, there's just only so many ways you can keep saying how good they are. It seems like every game we have to try and think of something new. They're by far the best 1-2 punch in baseball right now, as four more RBIs gave them 43 on the year. The rest of the team has 24 combined! That's just crazy.
I said this yesterday, but the key to the Dodgers going forward is how the others will step up once these two start to cool off a bit. Saturday was a good start, as Gordon had three hits leading off and Loney homered. We'll see going forward how the supporting cast continues to improve, as the Dodgers can become a more complete team if they do.
A win on Sunday afternoon would give the Dodgers a sweep, which would be their third already. Chad Billingsley has been cool as ice (in a good way) through three starts, so he'll look to keep that up. He has a tough matchup, as the Astros will send their ace, Wandy Rodriguez, to the mound looking to grab a win.
Fast forward to the end, and it's no surprise it was another Dodgers' victory.
Kemp crushed his ninth homer, the fastest through 15 games in Dodgers' history, and Kershaw went seven scoreless as the Dodgers cruised by the Astros, 5-1. At 12-3 now, the Dodgers are just continuing to get better and better each night.
The scoring started in the second. James Loney hasn't been helping his cause for being an everyday first baseman with another rough start, but he pulled a long solo shot to make it 1-0. Even with that hit, he's still only hitting .200, but you've got to start somewhere, right?
Kershaw wasn't being threatened too much, but neither was Kyle Weiland through five frames. In the sixth, however, it was Kemp who made Weiland pay. Dee Gordon bunted his way on with one out, then went to third on a bad pickoff attempt. Adam Kennedy popped up for two outs.
So now up came Kemp with two outs and first base open. Should he be pitched to? Well, I wouldn't think so, but with Andre Ethier hitting behind him, Weiland went after him. It was a big mistake, as he launched a two-run bomb to dead center to go up 3-0.
Speaking of Ethier, he added to the cause in the eighth. A rally started with two outs when the bases became loaded on a double by Gordon, and walks to Kennedy and Kemp. Ethier ripped a two-run single into right to push the lead up to 5-0.
Mike MacDougal was called upon to get through the eighth, but his old nemesis the walk got the best of him. A single by Justin Maxwell followed by walks to Jordan Schafer and Jose Altuve got him pulled with one out. Kenley Jansen walked a run in, but put out the fire right after that with two straight outs.
Jamey Wright continued his resurgence by going through the ninth in order to close it out.
After the game, Kershaw admitted he didn't feel like he had much control over his fastball. That's a scary though considering how good he was anyway. He lasted seven innings for three hits, no runs, two walks, and nine strikeouts. He finally got on the board with his first win after three straight no-decisions.
As for Kemp and Ethier, there's just only so many ways you can keep saying how good they are. It seems like every game we have to try and think of something new. They're by far the best 1-2 punch in baseball right now, as four more RBIs gave them 43 on the year. The rest of the team has 24 combined! That's just crazy.
I said this yesterday, but the key to the Dodgers going forward is how the others will step up once these two start to cool off a bit. Saturday was a good start, as Gordon had three hits leading off and Loney homered. We'll see going forward how the supporting cast continues to improve, as the Dodgers can become a more complete team if they do.
A win on Sunday afternoon would give the Dodgers a sweep, which would be their third already. Chad Billingsley has been cool as ice (in a good way) through three starts, so he'll look to keep that up. He has a tough matchup, as the Astros will send their ace, Wandy Rodriguez, to the mound looking to grab a win.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
The planet belongs to Matt Kemp
Matt Kemp has proven that, once again, he can do no wrong.
Kemp's two-run homer in the first held up the whole way, as the Dodgers downed the Astros on the road, 3-1. The record is now upped to 11-3, which is still tied with the Rangers and Nationals for tops in the majors.
Justin Sellers got the start at short and in the leadoff hole, giving Dee Gordon a needed day of rest. Sellers made the most of it by singling to open the game. An out later, Kemp hit his eighth homer of the year to grab the quick 2-0 lead.
Somewhat overshadowed in all of the Kemp hysteria has been the great start by Andre Ethier as well. He got in on the act in the third. Mark Ellis started it with a single, and Kemp did something that pitchers should be doing a lot more of - issuing a walk. Juan Rivera hit a hard one, but it was gloved at third for a double play. Kemp went to third on the play, and he scored on Ethier's RBI single to make it 3-0.
Lilly was rolling until running into a bit of trouble with two outs in the fourth. Brian Bogusevic singled and stole second. He came around to score on Chris Snyder's RBI single, and it was now 3-1.
Jerry Hairston, Jr. got plenty of attention for his sharp defensive play in the Brewers' series, and he again raised some eyebrows in this one. The bases became loaded for the Astros in the fifth on a walk to Jose Altuve, a single by J.D. Martinez off of Lilly's glove, and an intentional pass to Chris Johnson. Jed Lowrie then grounded a hard one to Hairston at third, who made the play, then dove to the base to just get a sliding Martinez by a hair. It was a bang-bang play, but looked to be the right call.
Then again, I'm a Dodger fan, so of course it looked good to me.
Much like the last series, the game was turned over to the bullpen to close it out. Don Mattingly is showing more and more confidence in Josh Lindblom, and for good reason. Lindblom got a double play ball and struck out Martinez in the seventh.
The combination of Kenley Jansen and Javy Guerra did the rest. Jansen walked Carlos Lee leading off, but struck out the side after that. Guerra added two more K's for his seventh save, tops in the majors.
Lilly continued his hot start to the year with another great outing. He lasted six innings for four hits, one run, six walks, and five strikeouts. Six walks is too high, but he got the big outs when he needed to. He did a good job of attacking the hitters he knew he could get out, and not giving in to the other ones.
As good as Lilly, the bullpen, and the defense of Hairston was, nothing compares to Kemp, who is by far the best player in the world right now. His numbers through 14 games are just crazy: .481 AVG, .525 OBP, 1.525 OPS, 16 R, 4 2B, 8 HR, 20 RBI, 1 SB. He's not going to be this hot the whole year, but boy is it fun for now. What he will do is provide that threat each time he's up to the plate, ala Manny Ramirez during his scorching hot run at the end of the '08 season.
When Kemp and even Ethier start to cool off a bit (and even by "cooling off," they can still hit vey well), the Dodgers will need others to step up more. The highest average for another starter is Rivera, who's at .267. From there the numbers dip even more, such as Mark Ellis at .245, Gordon at .192, and James Loney at .190. The positive side is that those numbers are bound to get better, and hopefully soon.
The Dodgers will look for their third straight win by sending their ace Clayton Kershaw to the mound on Saturday. Kershaw is coming off a mediocre start against the Padres last Sunday, and is still at 0-0, so he'll be pitching with something to prove.
Kemp's two-run homer in the first held up the whole way, as the Dodgers downed the Astros on the road, 3-1. The record is now upped to 11-3, which is still tied with the Rangers and Nationals for tops in the majors.
Justin Sellers got the start at short and in the leadoff hole, giving Dee Gordon a needed day of rest. Sellers made the most of it by singling to open the game. An out later, Kemp hit his eighth homer of the year to grab the quick 2-0 lead.
Somewhat overshadowed in all of the Kemp hysteria has been the great start by Andre Ethier as well. He got in on the act in the third. Mark Ellis started it with a single, and Kemp did something that pitchers should be doing a lot more of - issuing a walk. Juan Rivera hit a hard one, but it was gloved at third for a double play. Kemp went to third on the play, and he scored on Ethier's RBI single to make it 3-0.
Lilly was rolling until running into a bit of trouble with two outs in the fourth. Brian Bogusevic singled and stole second. He came around to score on Chris Snyder's RBI single, and it was now 3-1.
Jerry Hairston, Jr. got plenty of attention for his sharp defensive play in the Brewers' series, and he again raised some eyebrows in this one. The bases became loaded for the Astros in the fifth on a walk to Jose Altuve, a single by J.D. Martinez off of Lilly's glove, and an intentional pass to Chris Johnson. Jed Lowrie then grounded a hard one to Hairston at third, who made the play, then dove to the base to just get a sliding Martinez by a hair. It was a bang-bang play, but looked to be the right call.
Then again, I'm a Dodger fan, so of course it looked good to me.
Much like the last series, the game was turned over to the bullpen to close it out. Don Mattingly is showing more and more confidence in Josh Lindblom, and for good reason. Lindblom got a double play ball and struck out Martinez in the seventh.
The combination of Kenley Jansen and Javy Guerra did the rest. Jansen walked Carlos Lee leading off, but struck out the side after that. Guerra added two more K's for his seventh save, tops in the majors.
Lilly continued his hot start to the year with another great outing. He lasted six innings for four hits, one run, six walks, and five strikeouts. Six walks is too high, but he got the big outs when he needed to. He did a good job of attacking the hitters he knew he could get out, and not giving in to the other ones.
As good as Lilly, the bullpen, and the defense of Hairston was, nothing compares to Kemp, who is by far the best player in the world right now. His numbers through 14 games are just crazy: .481 AVG, .525 OBP, 1.525 OPS, 16 R, 4 2B, 8 HR, 20 RBI, 1 SB. He's not going to be this hot the whole year, but boy is it fun for now. What he will do is provide that threat each time he's up to the plate, ala Manny Ramirez during his scorching hot run at the end of the '08 season.
When Kemp and even Ethier start to cool off a bit (and even by "cooling off," they can still hit vey well), the Dodgers will need others to step up more. The highest average for another starter is Rivera, who's at .267. From there the numbers dip even more, such as Mark Ellis at .245, Gordon at .192, and James Loney at .190. The positive side is that those numbers are bound to get better, and hopefully soon.
The Dodgers will look for their third straight win by sending their ace Clayton Kershaw to the mound on Saturday. Kershaw is coming off a mediocre start against the Padres last Sunday, and is still at 0-0, so he'll be pitching with something to prove.
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