Dodgers Lineup: vs. Colorado

What a disastrous series. The Rockies have left the Dodgers black and Blue after scoring 18 runs in the last two games in Denver. Matt Kemp has slammed against the outfield wall in two consecutive games as well, and last night he had to leave the game with a knee contusion and possible jaw injury. The layered problems the Dodgers are facing this late in the season may signal an end to any playoff hope. The large turnover, roughly one-third of the active roster, has made it increasingly difficult for this team to create a cohesive and fluid game strategy. Lackluster offense, a depleted rotation, a tired bullpen, and a weak bench has put the team in a hard spot this late into the season. It’s becoming clear that without a big winning streak and some help from the Giants, Cards, or Braves, this Dodger team will have to regroup over the winter and come out strong in 2013. (more…)

Rockies 2 11 1

WP- Ottavino (3-1)

LP- Capuano (10-8)

S- Betancourt (18)

Jerry Sands goes hitless in his return. Photo: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-US PRESSWIRE

Earlier in the day we learned the sad fate of Tony Gwynn Jr. who was designated for assignment. It seems that once the Dodgers acquired Shane Victorino, Gwynn was squeezed out. In a corresponding move, the Dodgers called up perennial prospect Jerry Sands from AAA. I realize we are hungry for offense, and Sands has been on a hot streak over in Albuquerque, but he still hasn’t proven that he is able to hit consistently well on the big club. Now with Gwynn’s departure, it leaves the bench much slower and weaker defensively. What’s odd is that Tony Gwynn’s contract ran through next season with an option for 2014. I’m not sure why they dropped him like a hot potato since September first and roster expansion is right around the corner. It must be partly due to Shane Victorino’s desire to resign with the Dodgers after this season. Although Tony was perfectly accepting of a bench role which he had happily assumed before Kemp was disabled. We wish Tony nothing but the best of luck in the future, and we thank him for some amazing catches and clutch hits.

Chris Capuano allowed one run in the first and one run in the third inning, but the total lack of offense with runners in scoring position was what ultimately sealed the Dodgers’ fate tonight. The bullpen pitched two innings of scoreless ball, but the offense could only muster five hits scattered over nine innings. (more…)