While Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stuck with a lineup heavy on right-handed batters against Washington Nationals lefty Gio Gonzalez, his infield had a bit of a different look.
Although Yasmani Grandal is a switch-hitter, Austin Barnes was behind the plate. Elsewhere, Kiké Hernandez made his first career start at first base. Logan Forsythe was again at third base, where he’s primarily played since returning from the disabled list.
The versatile infielder had an impact early, making a diving stop to rob Ryan Raburn of a hit in the first inning.
With the Dodgers trailing 4-0 in the sixth inning, Yasiel Puig laid out for a diving catch to take a hit away from Daniel Murphy.
The pair of web gems and seven innings Hyun-Jin Ryu were not enough, however, as the Dodgers dropped the series opener, 4-2. The start was the first time Ryu completed seven innings since August 2014.
While Forsythe has recently spent much of his time playing third base, that may change as soon as this weekend. Justin Turner began a rehab assignment Monday and is expected to come off the disabled list for the series with the Cincinnati Reds, so long as he does not suffer any setbacks.
