Jun 25

Game 81, 2019

Dodgers at Diamondbacks, 6:40 PM PDT, TV: FS-A, SPNLA

Manager Dave Roberts says the Dodgers will slot RHP Ross Stripling (3-2, 3.08 ERA) in Rich Hill’s spot in the rotation while Hill is out with a bad flexor tendon. Stripling has been better as a starter than a reliever when judged by ERA and WHIP (2.65/1.09 to 4.02/1.34). He’ll face the D-Backs’ LHP Robbie Ray (5-4, 3.87 ERA) who gave up just four hits in six innings in his last start but got no decision, as two of the hits were HRs by Ian Desmond and Charlie Blackmon.

I hope after this theft of a base hit that Will Smith doesn’t get discouraged and think the only place where he’s assured of hitting safely is over the wall.

Here’s some analysis of the Dodgers’ bullpen situation. It’s not pretty.

Today in Dodgers’ history:

  • 1968 Bobby Bonds hits a grand slam in his third at-bat of his first major league game, going deep off Dodger right-hander John Purdin in the Giants’ 9-0 victory at Candlestick Park. The 22 year-old Giant outfielder joins Philadelphia National pitcher Bill Duggelby (1898 – first at-bat) as the only other player to hit a base-loaded home run in his major league debut.
  • 1984 Dodger infielder Bill Russell plays his 1,953rd game to become the team’s leader in games played. The shortstop, who will extend the mark to 2181 during his 18-year tenure with the club, is hitless in three trips to the plate but will walk twice in LA’s 9-4 loss to San Diego at Chavez Ravine.

Lineup when available.