Rockies @ Dodgers Aug. 23, 2020: Senzatela vs. Stripling; Smith returns

Photo: Stacie Wheeler

The Dodgers are going for a 3-game series sweep of the Rockies, as Ross Stripling gets the call against Antonio Senzatela.

Since beginning the season with a strong 7-inning, 1-run performance, Stripling has struggled. With Tony Gonsolin throwing well and Alex Wood on track to return soonish, Stripling’s spot in the rotation could be in jeopardy. A solid performance today could help him keep him.

RockiesDodgers
1:10 p.m.Los Angeles
DH TapiaRF Betts
CF HampsonSS Seager
RF BlackmonLF Taylor
SS StoryCF Bellinger
1B MurphyDH Pederson
3B McMahon3B Muncy
2B Rodgers2B Hernandez
LF Hilliard1B Beaty
C DiazC Smith
P Senzatela (R)P Stripling (R)

Will Smith is back from the 10-day injured list after getting through his bout with neck stiffness. Keibert Ruiz was optioned to the alternate site (USC) to make room on the active roster.

Justin Turner is getting the day off to rest his hamstring. He’s a #TrueDodger. With JT out, Chris Taylor (!) hits in the No. 3 spot in the lineup, while Max Muncy gets the start at the hot corner.

Kenley Jansen is honoring Kobe Bryant, as today would have been his 42nd birthday.

——

The Dodgers are the only team in baseball with at least 20 wins (21-8). After today’s game, they’ll officially be halfway done with this silly season.

About Dustin Nosler

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Dustin Nosler began writing about the Dodgers in July 2009 at his blog, Feelin' Kinda Blue. He co-hosted a weekly podcast with Jared Massey called Dugout Blues. He was a contributor/editor at The Hardball Times and True Blue LA. He graduated from California State University, Sacramento, with his bachelor’s degree in journalism and a minor in digital media. While at CSUS, he worked for the student-run newspaper The State Hornet for three years, culminating with a 1-year term as editor-in-chief. He resides in Stockton, Calif.