Dodgers Vs. Cubs Preview: Hernandez Looking To Improve

With the Los Angeles Dodgers hitting the way they are, clinching the National League West division title may be but a formality. After a 14-5 beat down of the Chicago Cubs in the second game of the four-game set, the Dodgers now focus on winning the series.

Taking the hill for the Dodgers is Roberto Hernandez. The right-hander is looking to regroup and get back on track. In his seven starts as a Dodger, Hernandez has only made it past five innings three times.

In his last start, Hernandez did not make it out of the fourth inning. In 3.2 innings pitched, the right-handed pitcher allowed six hits, two earned runs and issued two walks. He now looks to make amends for his recent string of forgettable starts by turning in a solid outing against a team he has faced twice this season.

Hernandez is 1-1 with a 3.27 ERA in his two career starts against the Cubs, which came when he was still a member of the Philadelphia Phillies. In his lone start at Wrigley Field, Hernandez earned a win and allowed just two earned runs in 5.1 innings.

Starting for the Cubs is Felix Doubront. The southpaw pitcher is 4-5 on the season with a 5.00 ERA. Doubront spent most of his career with the Boston Red Sox until the Cubs acquired him in late August. In his three starts as a Cub, the 26 year old has been impressive. In 18 innings pitched, Doubront has only allowed three earned runs and is 2-1.

The four-year veteran has only faced the Dodgers once in his career, and that happened to be his Major League debut. On June 18, 2010, Doubront threw five innings and despite allowing five runs, picked up a win against the Dodgers.

The Dodgers lineup Saturday differs slightly from Friday’s as Justin Turner is in at third base and Scott Van Slyke makes his second start in three games in left field. Another change is Drew Butera takes over behind the plate.

Dodgers Lineup

2B: Gordon

CF: Puig

1B: Gonzalez

RF: Kemp

SS: Ramirez

3B: Turner

LF: Van Slyke

C: Butera

P: Hernandez

Cubs Lineup

LF: Coghlan

SS: Baez

1B: Rizzo

RF: Soler

3B: Valbuena

CF: Alcantara

2B: Watkins

C: Baker

P: Doubront
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