After two split-squad victories on Saturday, the Los Angeles Dodgers were back together for one game Sunday as they traveled to Salt River Fields at Talking Stick to take on the Colorado Rockies.
Clayton Kershaw made his third start of the spring and became the first pitcher to bat for himself instead of the Dodgers using a designated hitter. Kershaw was opposed by right-hander Jordan Lyles, who did not hit.
After Lyles retired the side in order in the top of the first, Kershaw threw a scoreless bottom half of the first thanks in part to nice defensive plays by Charlie Culberson (diving stop) and Joc Pederson (diving catch).
Scoot Van Slyke hit his third home run of the spring to lead off the second inning. Then with the bases loaded and two outs, Pederson knocked a base hit up the middle scoring two and giving the Dodgers a 3-0 lead.
They then added to that in the top of the third. Andre Ethier led off the inning with a triple and later scored on a squeeze play with A.J. Ellis laying down a perfect bunt. First base prospect Cody Bellinger drove in two with a double to give the Dodgers a commanding 6-0 lead.
Kershaw set the Rockies down in order for the second straight inning in the bottom of the third, putting him at seven straight hitters retired. That ended in the bottom of the fourth though, as he issued a walk to Ryan Raburn to lead off the inning.
CONTINUE READING: Jharel Cotton and Matt West allow Rockies to get close
