Derek Lowe continued to lack run support and pitched a gem but still took the loss as the Dodgers lose 1-0 and fail to take the series sweep. They did seal the series win though, just their second series win in the past 11.
Angels’ starter John Lackey threw like an ace, allowing just three Dodger hits while striking out nine. The Dodgers loaded the bases with two outs in the ninth but the MLB leader in saves, K-Rod, got Loney to ground out to end the threat. Juan Pierre had one of the hits in the sixth but was pulled when he injured his knee while sliding into second on a steal. He will undergo an MRI and may be headed to the DL for the first time in his career. If so, the Dodgers would likely have to make a Triple-A callup and find a new leadoff hitter until Furcal’s return.
Derek Lowe suffered his eighth loss despite giving up just one run through seven. He gave up just five hits and fanned seven but lacked any run support to help him out.
The Dodgers are back to National League play after going 5-10 against the AL by heading to Houston tomorrow to begin a three-game set. Eric Stults will look to improve his perfect record to 3-0 and will face Roy Oswalt. Oswalt is 6-8 with an ERA at almost 5 and is 4-3 lifetime against the Dodgers.
Delwyn Young will likely get the start in place of Pierre on Monday and will bat leadoff until word on Pierre’s MRI comes, which may prompt Torre to bring up an extra outfielder. The injured trio of Andruw Jones, Nomar, and Furcal will all begin rehab starts with Las Vegas on Monday. Jones will rehab to focus on his swing and looks to return for the second half. Furcal and Nomar are looking to return just before the All-Star Break, with the Dodgers in much need of their regular leadoff hitter, especially if Pierre goes on the DL.
