Dodgers Defeat Mets Handily

The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the New York Mets 8-0, their first victory in the Mets' new Citi Field. The Dodgers struck early in the second with three runs, and led for the rest of the game. New York could only muster four hits and two walks over nine innings. Rafael Furcal scored twice, and Orlando Hudson drove in two runs. Manny Ramirez collected three RBI's before being ejected after reacting negatively to a strike out. Matt Kemp totaled two hits, a run scored, a run-batted-in, and an outfield assist. Blake DeWitt had a pinch-hit homer, his first blast of the season. Juan Pierre tripled and scored a run after replacing Manny. Clayton Kershaw pitched six shutout innings, striking out seven and walking only two. Luis Castillo had only one of the Amazins' four hits.

Claudio Vargas made his Dodger debut after spending the entire season on the disabled list. Vargas had a perfect inning, but was struck by a line-drive.

Ronald Belisario returned to Los Angeles to have an MRI on his right elbow after he complained of stiffness. There is no word if he will be placed on the disabled list.

Dodgers Break Out Brooms for Mets

The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the New York Mets 2-1, sweeping the three-game series. Jeff Weaver allowed only one run in five innings in his spot-start, and Brent Leach received the first win of his career. Juan Pierre had two hits and scored a run, and Orlando Hudson spent no time on the bench after hurting his shoulder yesterday; he doubled and scored. Russell Martin had the game-winning RBI. Jonathan Broxton had a scoreless ninth to get his 11th save of the season. Carlos Beltran doubled twice and drove in Luis Castillo for the Mets' only run of the game.

Jones's Contract is Reworked

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Andruw Jones (left) reworked his contract, virtually assuring he will not be with the team for the 2009 season. The new, restructured contract will spread the $21.1 million Jones is owed over as many as 6 years, with the amount deferred for next season coming to $12 million. Jones will either be traded or released, though there is a small trade market for the struggling outfielder. Talks with the Mets broke down on the issue as New York wanted to send their own Andruw Jones: Luis Castillo. The $12 million saved is meant to go to Manny Ramirez and pitching.