Dodgers' first baseman James Loney will undergo an MRI today for a stiff left knee, the club announced today. While is doesn't seem to be serious -- manager Don Mattingly said Loney wasn't in any pain, per Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times -- this is one of a few nagging injuries facing the Dodgers right now.
In addition to Loney's knee, Marcus Thames has battled foot problems -- the early stages of plantar fasciitis, says Tony Jackson of ESPN LA -- though Thames has found new spikes to combat the problem. It's still early in the spring, but if one of Loney or Thames has to start the season on the disabled list it would open up a roster spot. If Loney is hurt, Thames or Jay Gibbons could slide to first, allowing a spot for the out-of-options Xavier Paul, who bats left-handed. Or, right-handers Jamie Hoffmann or non-roster invitee Gabe Kapler could get the call if Thames is hurt. Rookie Jerry Sands has four hits, including a home run, and three walks in 11 plate appearances. But again, it's too early for such speculation. Let's at least wait for the MRI results on Loney's knee.
Here are today's lineups, as the Dodgers battle the Reds at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona:
Reds
Phillips 2B
Stubbs CF
Votto 1B
Rolen 3B
Gomes LF
Bruce RF
Hanigan C
Janish SS
Grandal DH
Dodgers
Furcal SS
Blake 3B
Ethier RF
Kemp CF
Gibbons DH
Uribe 2B
Barajas C
Mitchell 1B
Kapler LF
Clayton Kershaw makes his second start of the spring today for the Dodgers, and is scheduled to throw 60 pitches, while Bronson Arroyo gets the call for the Reds. Today's 12:05 p.m. PST game is not on television, but will be broadcast on radio.
For more news and information on the Dodgers, be sure to read True Blue LA.