Can the Dodgers finally fend off the Giants?

For a while there, it looked like the Dodgers would have to beat the Giants themselves if they hoped to gain any ground in the NL West standings. After a few missed opportunities, though, the Dodgers have capitalized on two San Francisco losses with wins against the Braves and sit just half a game back from their division rivals.

L.A. looks to close that gap tonight—or maintain it, at the very least—with one more game against the Braves before heading to San Francisco.

The Dodgers have been in a collective slump lately, ranking a lowly 22^nd in the league when it comes to runs (49), 28^th in on-base percentage (.276), and 29^th in batting average (.198) since August 16. Despite this, they managed a 21-6 record in August, showing signs of a spark with 12 homers in their last 10 games.

Blake Treinen and Kenley Jansen, who each pitched an inning last night, are unavailable for tonight’s game in the interest of getting some much-needed rest. That shouldn’t be a problem for starter Max Scherzer, who was just over an inning shy of pitching a complete game in his last start and averages 8.2 strikeouts per game this season.

Scherzer will also likely have newcomer Ryan Meisinger in the bullpen for backup. The Dodgers claimed Meisinger and Jake Jewell, another right-handed reliever, off waivers from the Chicago Cubs yesterday. While Jewell has been designated for assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City, Meisinger is expected to head for Los Angeles.

Game Info

Teams: Dodgers (84-49) vs. Braves (70-61)

Location: Dodger Stadium

Time: 7:10 p.m.

TV: SportsNet LA