The Los Angeles Dodgers struck early on Wednesday night, scoring three runs in the first inning against Mike Leake, and made it stand, beating the Cincinnati Reds 4-1 in the finale of a three-game series at Dodger Stadium.
The Dodgers have won two straight games and three of their last four, and moved back into first place in the National League West. The Dodgers hadn't won consecutive games since winning twice in Seattle on June 9-10.
Aaron Harang allowed just one run and three hits in seven innings, picking up his sixth win of the season. Harang struck out five and walked one in his final start before the All-Star break.
The Dodgers got hits from the first four batters of the game to score two runs, and scored another on a throwing error by Reds shortstop Zack Cozart. Leake allowed just two hits the rest of the way and pitched seven strong innings, but he took the loss thanks to those early runs.
Devin Mesoraco homered in the loss for Cincinnati, his fifth of the season.
The Dodgers move on to Arizona for a four-game series against the Diamondbacks on Thursday, with Nathan Eovaldi starting the series opener against Wade Miley.
For all your Dodgers news and analysis, be sure to read True Blue LA. To keep up with Reds news and notes, be sure to read Red Reporter.
