Breaking the string

The Dodgers took the field in Cincinnati Tuesday night in desperate needing a win like a fish needs water, a koala needs eucalyptus, and Eddie Murphy needs a career makeover.  Enter Chad Billingsley, the pride of Ohio, native son.  In LA's 3-1 win over the Reds, Billingsley delivered an ace-like performance, even if he won't call himself one, striking out nine hitters in 6.1 innings for his fifth win of the season.  Some good relief work, including Takashi Saito's first save in 26 days- he hasn't been awash with opportunities, you know- was enough to preserve the win on a night where the sticks did just enough against Reds rook Johnny Cueto to get the job done.  Three hits and RBI from Jeff Kent, run scoring doubles from Russell Martin and Juan Pierre.  Otherwise, it was a box score without many crooked numbers (zero isn't crooked, right?).

Off the field, the news wasn't as good, as Hiroki Kuroda was sent back to LA for an MRI on his shoulder.   The FA signee has been bothered by soreness all season, but only let on this week.  The hope is he'll be able to make a start this weekend if all shows up normal.  Brad Penny, meanwhile, was placed on the 15 day DL, with Eric Stults recalled to replace him.

Tonight's Game: Derek Lowe will get the ball for Kuroda (on regular rest, thanks to off days).  He'll face righty Aaron Harang.