The Los Angeles Dodgers went 1-5 on a homestand that skidded to a disappointing finish as the Cincinnati Reds completed a four-game sweep in a head-to-head meeting for the first time since 1976.
For the Dodgers, at 16-24, it’s their worst start through 40 games of a season since 1958 — their first year in Los Angeles. Making matters worse, Rich Hill was removed with two outs in the sixth inning because of blister trouble.
It’s an issue that’s dogged Hill since the 2016 season, and this year alone he’s dealt with inflammation and an infection in the middle finger of his throwing hand, which was a result of a cracked fingernail.
Although Hill is again dealing with a blister, he doesn’t anticipate the issue preventing him from making a weekend against the Washington Nationals, per Ken Gurnick of MLB.com
“Things will be fine for Saturday,” said Hill. “I think everything will be OK.”
Prior to coming out, Hill allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits, issued four walks and collected four strikeouts in 5.2 innings.
He was tabbed with the loss, and now is 1-2 with a 6.50 ERA in five starts. If Hill is unable to take the mound at Nationals Park, the Dodgers, already shorthanded in their rotation, may be forced to turn to Brock Stewart.
Clayton Kershaw presumably could be another option, as he’s eligible to be reinstated from the 10-day disabled list in the middle of the week, but the club hasn’t given any indication their ace is close to returning. Kershaw has played catch five consecutive days.
