The Los Angeles Dodgers are in position to win a third series to start the season, but they look to do so on Saturday with Mookie Betts. He’s been day-to-day since Wednesday with lower back stiffness and is out of the lineup for a third consecutive game.
Betts went 2-for-5 with a home run and two stolen bases his last time playing. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has largely downplayed concern and not yet indicated whether the team is mulling an injured list stint.
“I think where we’re at, no player is going to feel 100%. But I think giving other guys an opportunity while making sure Mookie doesn’t get any worse, is most important,” Roberts said before the home opener.
Then on Saturday, Roberts said Betts continues to make progress in his recovery but again would not be available.
Chris Taylor makes another start in center field due to Cody Bellinger being on the IL and bats leadoff in Betts’ absence. The domino effect has Zach McKinstry starting in right field for a second straight game.
The Dodgers will look to provide run support for Julio Urias, who is coming off a career-long start. He went seven-plus innings, which was part of a stretch that’s seen Dodgers starting pitchers log at least six innings in seven straight games.
Urias is opposed by Patrick Corbin, who returns from the injured list for his 2021 season debut. The southpaw went 2-7 with a 4.66 ERA and 1.58 WHIP in 11 starts last season.
Justin Turner, whose solo home run was the difference in the Dodgers’ home opener, enters play with a 38-game on-base streak that dates back to last season. It’s the longest such active stretch in the Majors.
Lasorda tribute
On Friday the Dodgers held a World Series ring ceremony, and prior to the second game of the series the team is holding a Tommy Lasorda tribute. He passed away in January and has been celebrated by the Dodgers on multiple occasions.
Dodgers lineup
CF: Chris Taylor
SS: Corey Seager
3B: Justin Turner
C: Will Smith
1B: Max Muncy
LF: AJ Pollock
2B: Gavin Lux
RF: Zach McKinstry
P: Julio Urias
Nationals lineup:
CF: Victor Robles
SS: Trea Turner
RF: Juan Soto
1B: Ryan Zimmerman
3B: Starlin Castro
2B: Jordy Mercer
C: Yan Gomes
LF: Hernan Perez
P: Patrick Corbin
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