Esteban!

Fair to say that this site has not exactly championed the work of Esteban Loaiza as a Dodger, and that we are less than optimistic that he's going to be a stalwart for the Blue out of the fifth starter slot (assuming he gets it).  But it's looking more and more like Loaiza will get a chance to prove Blue Notes wrong, as his candidacy was bolstered by a one run, five inning outing in LA's 6-4 loss to the Cardinals in Vero.  A first inning Rick Ankiel homer was one of only three hits Loaiza surrendered.  He walked one, and struck out three.  Sure, later in the game Yhency Brazoban would continue his 2008 Spring From Hell, and sure, the Blue would eventually lose, but overall, another good outing from Loaiza is certainly encouraging. 

The guy who is supposed to have the job, Jason Schmidt, is going to crank up the rehab on his shoulder, even if it means throwing in some pain.  Speaking of rehab, Andy LaRoche is nearing the start of his, and Tony Abreu (not rehabbing, but not well, either) will play on Saturday.  Encouraging signs both. 

Fair to say business in China is not the usual.