Did we really think it was going to be that easy? The Dodgers seem to have new struggles day-to-day.
Let's start with Stephen Fife. Fife got the start so that Clayton Kershaw could get a much needed 3 days rest. Unfortunately, he didn't make it beyond the 3rd inning. He allowed 4 earned runs and walked 3. I believe some pitchers have it in their mind that they're a certain type of pitcher(starter, closer, reliever). I think Fife is a good pitcher but not a starter. He's a reliever and he should wear it proudly. Some great relievers have played for the Boys in Blue. Jay Howell, Jim Brewer, Todd Worrell, to name a few.
Yasiel Puig doubles and gets picked off? I'm not going to discuss why that shouldn't happen.
However, another issue, and its an issue out of our control, was the officiating. Adrian Gonzalez was ejected last night for arguing a call that was completely wrong. Michael Young was waived around on Gonzalez's double as the D-Backs made the throw from left-center. From the replay, the first base umpire Jim Joyce, just blew the call. It was obvious that Young had tagged home plate before catcher Miguel Montero, could tag his elbow.
Clip of call and Adrian's ejection What do you think? I believe this was, most likely, a decisive factor in the Arizona win.
The game steadily made a left turn and went downhill for the Dodgers. What are you gonna do? This is the September push for playoffs. Things like these are bound to happen. It's not going to be easy for any team going into October. With focus and sometimes restraint, the Dodgers can finish this up and clinch the spot.
Today, Ricky Nolasco(8-2, 2.63 ERA) will make the start in just over an hour from now. Nolasco has worked for us in the clutch before and barring any blown calls, should finish it up for us.
#GoDodgers #StayTrueBlue
