The Dodgers sure are using a lot of that rope they spent most of the first half weaving.  It may seem like they are running out of slack, after another loss, 3-1 in San Diego to the Padres.

The Dodgers managed four hits and one run off six Padres pitchers, as the magic number for the division remained at one for a third straight day, thanks to an extra inning win by the Rockies in Denver.

Chad Billingsley pitched reasonably well, giving up two runs on just two hits, but also allowed five walks, including three in the sixth inning, leading to the Padres' second run.  Whether or not this is enough to make the playoff starting rotation, I don't know.  Really, only Joe Torre knows, and he sure showed a lot of faith in letting Billingsley work through his own jam in the sixth.

Really the only positives for the offense were Rafael Furcal, who extended his hitting streak to 12 games with a pair of singles, and Orlando Hudson, who tripled and scored the lone run, to go along with his two walks.

Attempt number four at clinching the division comes tomorrow night with Jon Garland facing Clayton Richard.  Its a shame Kershaw won't be pitching, to complete the battle of Claytons.

Just remember this: its better to play badly this week rather than next week.

WP -Ryan Webb (2-0): A 1-2-3 sixth inning

LP - Chad Billingsley (12-11):  6 IP, 2 hits, 2 runs, 5 walks, 5 strikeouts

Sv - Heath Bell (41): 3 batters, 3 strikeouts

Box Score