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Scott Van Slyke returns to starting lineup; Gonzalez reports stiff back

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

LOS ANGELES -- Scott Van Slyke returns to action for the first time since September 15th, starting at first base and batting sixth. Manager Don Mattingly said before the game that Adrian Gonzalez's back "was a little stiff yesterday" and by the end of last night's game, "they knew he was kind of iffy for today."

Alex Guerrero starts at third base. Besides Guerrero, Ronald Torreyes can play third base during Turner's absence. Mattingly also mentioned Corey Seager could play third when Jimmy Rollins comes back.

Mattingly said today, "we're getting more and more comfortable" with the idea of playing Utley at third base. Tim Wallach worked with Utley on Saturday and he felt that was Utley's best day at third.

Mattingly added "Chase is willing to do it," and "so we're getting closer to [playing Utley at third]."

Regarding the rotation, Mattingly said Mike Bolsinger is "one of the five starters" for the rest of season.

Injury Updates

Mattingly said they will watch Justin Turner over the next few days and try to got his knee calmed down. It is possible that Turner could pinch-hit before returning to the field.

Howie Kendrick is fine, his hamstring is fine.  Kendrick reported general body soreness after not playing for some time.

Yasiel Puig, Kiké Hernandez, Jose Peraza will report to Camelback Ranch on Tuesday. Mattingly said that Hernandez has been "running at nearly 100% percent." The plan is to get Hernandez a lot of at bats, the same thing they did with Kendrick.

Mattingly said that Puig is at "65%, his right hamstring is doing pretty well, his left hamstring is tight."

No new update on a return date for Rollins.

Game info

Time: 1:10 p.m. PT

TV: SportsNet LA