Cody Bellinger is in the leadoff spot of the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup as they look to complete a sweep of the Colorado Rockies on Sunday. It’s only his third time leading off, having previously done so in 2017 and Game 5 of the 2018 National League Championship Series.
Bellinger finds himself atop the Dodgers’ order due to Mookie Betts being out because of right hip irritation. Manager Dave Roberts revealed the hip trouble has been ongoing this season, though he and Betts downplayed any significant concern.
With Max Muncy coming off a two-homer game and the threat of Justin Turner looming in the three-hole, it’s conceivable Bellinger could see favorable pitches from Jon Gray and have a productive day at the plate.
Couple that with Bellinger being a career 11-for-18 with five doubles, one triple, five RBI and for walks against the Rockies’ starter. Gray enters 6-6 with a 3.77 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 16 starts this year.
He allowed three runs on five hits in just four innings and took the loss against L.A. on April 14.
The Dodgers counter with David Price in what may very well be his first start as a permanent member of the rotation. Price has started four of 24 appearances this season, though hasn’t logged more than three innings in any of those starts.
Price presumably isn’t built up to give much length yet, but the Dodgers bullpen is in good standing for the finale at Coors Field.
Since losing to the Rockies on Opening Day, the Dodgers have won eight in a row in their head-to-head meetings.
Dodgers lineup
CF: Cody Bellinger
1B: Max Muncy
3B: Justin Turner
C: Will Smith
2B: Chris Taylor
RF: Zach McKinstry
LF: AJ Pollock
SS: Gavin Lux
P: David Price
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