Dodgers' Update

The Dodgers have had a busy week, filled with ups and downs. Their offense pummeled the Reds on Wednesday night, while the pitchers let the team down the next night. Tyson Qualls comments on the last two games and discusses this week's developments with the Dodgers.

Vicente Padilla Rebounds:

Padilla pitched six strong innings in his most impressive start of the season Thursday night. The veteran right-hander struck out eight Reds and allowed only three earned runs. Unfortunately, his best start yet was wasted by a shaky bullpen. Hong-Chih Kuo and Ronald Belasario gave up four runs in a combined one inning, sealing the fate of the Dodgers' latest quest to crack the .500 mark.

Manny's Calf Strain Strikes Again:

Manny Ramirez left Thursday night's game with the same calf strain that limited him the previous week. On the bright side, Manny could be available to pinch hit for the weekend series. Manny's injured calf has been the lone blemish on an incredible start to the season. The Dodgers' left field is currently batting .415 with two home runs and twelve runs batted in.

Dodgers' Road Woes Continue:

Out of the gate the Boys in Blue are 3-6 on the road, losing series to two of the League's worst teams(Cincinnati and Pittsburgh). The Dodgers struggled to contain the same Pirates squad that suffered an embarrassing 20-0 defeat against the Brewers. The NL West is going to be a tight race, which could easily come down to the team that performs the best on the road.

Furcal's Playing Like It's 2005

The Dodgers veteran short stop has seemed to have rediscovered the deadly talent that made him one of the most coveted infielders on this decade. Furcal has raced out to one of the best starts of his ten year career. The switch hitting lead off man is hitting .356 with seven stolen bases over the first few weeks of the season.