March 17--Dodgers 7, Colorado 3
AT THE PLATE: With Chad Bettis, a right-handed pitcher, on the mound for the Rockies, Dave Roberts trotted out a new leadoff hitter: Andre Ethier. Ethier will turn 34 next month, has limited speed and has led off only seven times in his 10-year career. But the Dodgers may use him in the role during the season, because against right-handers, "he gets on base," Roberts said. Ethier has a .383 on-base percentage against right-handers in his career. He led off the first inning with a walk and came around to score. He singled in the third inning.
ON THE MOUND: After three strong innings, Zach Lee wobbled in the fourth. He gave up a double to Gerardo Parra and a run-scoring single to Nolan Arenado. Lee departed with no outs in the inning after giving up three hits and a walk on the day. He remains in the mix for the fifth spot in the Dodgers' rotation. "Obviously, it builds a little bit of confidence in me," Lee said. "I'm happy to keep going and getting opportunities. I just kind of relish each one they give me."
EXTRA BASES: Dodgers minor league pitcher Adrian Salcedo was suspended 144 games after testing positive for a metabolite of Boldenone, an anabolic steroid. It was Salcedo's third drug suspension in the past 11 months. ... Carl Crawford is expected to return to the lineup on Thursday after receiving several days off to rest his sore back, Roberts said. Crawford last played on Saturday.
UP NEXT: Royals on Thursday, 1:05 p.m. at Camelback Ranch. On the air: Radio: 570.
