Kershaw Throws a Gem As Dodgers Take Game and Series From Giants

Young Clayton Kershaw (20) would take the ball tonight as the Dodgers would go toe-to-toe with Matt Cain and the rival Giants.  Kershaw brought his "A" game Wednesday night and it was still nearly not enough to topple the Giants. Kershaw threw seven solid innings striking out 13, surrendering only one hit which was a homerun before handing things over to the bullpen.

Hong Chi-Kuo came into the game in the top of the eighth and immediately hit Pablo Sandoval with a pitch followed by a Rich Aurilia single to put runners on the corners for Aaron Rowand. Torre had seen enough and called for the rookie, Ronald Bellisario in a huge spot. A homerun could tie the game, and that's exactly what happened.

Jonathan Broxton came in to pitch the ninth and blew the doors off the Giants, striking out two of the three batters he faced.

Orlando Hudson (who hit for the cycle two days before) kicked things off in the bottom of the ninth with a single. Followed by a Ramirez single to put runners on the corners for Andre Ethier, who was intentionally walked to set-up a force at any base. Russell Martin grounded into a fielder's choice at home to stall the Dodgers at least temporarily. James Loney stepped to the plate and was walked. Wait, walked? Yes. A literal WALK-off win for the Dodgers.

So, Make that a 2-0 to start the new campaign at home this year, as the Dodgers move to 6-3 on the season and tied for first place overall with the Padres. I know it's a bit early to be touting things like first place nine games into the season, but those of us who are truly fans of the game want to see our team in first place year round. No matter if it's game nine of the season, or game 149.