We won't know the cost side of the Lugo trade for years to come, while we can see the benefits immediately. This (along with a very friendly Bill Plaschke) should help Colletti in the press. Meanwhile, Lugo should help us on the field. He already looks good. Let's just hope his career year continues.
If the division title is to be won, Penny will have to do a lot of the winning. With only a dozen (or so) starts left, he needs to get on it right away. If he can keep the wins coming, Maddux will take the mound Thursday with a chance to extend the streak. Spirits will be high in the Dodger clubhouse if it happens.
Media reactions to the two local teams were interesting. The Dodgers were generally praised for improving the team (despite the statistically slim chances of winning a playoff spot), while the Angels were derided for their failure to procure help. Yet the Angels have a good chance of making the postseason. Activity is often respected over wisdom, especially by those who lack the latter.
Getting back to the team, it is nice to see Loney not sucking out there, instead of just listening to the announcers pretend he's not sucking. It would be a huge boost if he can actually produce--at least tonight, against Elizardo Ramirez. Ramirez is one of those pitchers who, like the Original Ramon Martinez, bats left and throws right. Given the level of skill pitchers demonstrate at the plate, how much advantage could he be gaining by batting left-handed, and consequently presenting his pitching arm to the opposing pitcher? I can't believe that teams allow this.
Go Blue.
The Pitching Match-up:
Brad Penny (RHP, Dodgers) vs. Elizardo Ramirez (RHP, Reds)
For your (51-55) Los Angeles Dodgers:
Furcal, SS
Lofton, CF
Lugo, 2B
Drew, RF
Ethier, LF
Betamit, 3B
Martin, C
Loney, 1B
Penny, P
For the (55-51) Cincinnati Reds:
Freel, RF
Dunn, LF
Griffey, CF
Encarnacion, 3B
Hatteberg, 1B
Phillips, 2B
Ross, C
Clayton, SS
Ramirez, P