The Los Angeles Dodgers had their four-game winning streak snapped but are back on the field Monday night to face the Arizona Diamondbacks with an opportunity to add onto what’s been a successful homestand thus far.
The series opener oddly is the first meeting this season between the two National League West teams, and longtime Dodgers nemesis Madison Bumgarner is on the mound. However, that is a subplot to Albert Pujols making his debut since signing a one-year contract. Pujols is starting at first base and batting cleanup.
“I’m really excited, really pumped up. Looking forward to this next chapter in my life and hopefully helping this organization win another championship,” Pujols said during a press conference prior to the game.
Not in the lineup but also added to the active roster along with Pujols was Yoshitomo Tsutsugo. The Dodgers claimed Tsutsugo off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays and envision him playing first base, third base and left field.
The Dodgers look to find success against Bumgarner, who has gone 4-0 with a 0.90 ERA and 34 strikeouts over his past five starts. Overall, Bumgarner enters 4-2 with a 4.12 ERA.
He matches up against DJ Peters for the first time since the Dodgers prospect hit two home runs off the left-hander while he was on a Minor League rehab assignment.
Chris Taylor is still out after being scratched Sunday due to right wrist soreness.
Walker Buehler starts for the Dodgers, taking the ball on an extra day of rest. He’s gone at least six innings in all seven outings this season, but hasn’t earned a decision since April 9 — his second start.
Buehler is 1-0 with a 3.45 ERA that is inflated due to allowing five and four runs, respectively, in separate starts. Buehler otherwise has held opponents to two earned runs or fewer in his other five games.
Dodgers lineup
RF: Mookie Betts
3B: Justin Turner
2B: Max Muncy
1B: Albert Pujols
C: Will Smith
LF: Sheldon Neuse
SS: Gavin Lux
CF: DJ Peters
P: Walker Buehler
Diamondbacks lineup
1B: Pavin Smith
RF: Josh Rojas
3B: Eduardo Escobar
LF: David Peralta
2B: Domingo Leyba
C: Stephen Vogt
SS: Nick Ahmed
CF: Tim Locastro
P: Madison Bumgarner
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, participate in our shows and giveaways, and more!
