Gavin Lux and Miguel Vargas each hit a home run to help lift the Los Angeles Dodgers past the Cleveland Guardians, 6-2, for their first win of 2022 Spring Training. The Dodgers entered the matchup at Camelback Ranch with an 0-3-2 record in Cactus League play.
Lux provided Clayton Kershaw with early run support by leading off the bottom of the first inning with a home run. Lux went 1-for-2 with a walk while playing left field in his first start of the spring.
Vargas added to his impressive showing in camp with a go-ahead, three-run homer in the bottom of the second inning. He became the 10th Dodgers player with at least one home run in 2022 Spring Training.
Andy Burns and Jason Martin are tied for the team lead with two long balls each.
Clayton Kershaw was both dominant and efficient in the first inning as he retired the side in order. A one-out walk and base hit in the second inning led to some trouble for Kershaw. He nearly stranded the two baserunners, but allowed a two-out, two-run double to Ernie Clement.
Kershaw struck out Bradley Zimmer to start the third inning before calling it a day at 37 pitches. Included in that were some changeups, a pitch Kershaw has explored adding to his arsenal over the past several years.
Justin Bruihl took over for Kershaw and threw 1.2 scoreless innings in his second Spring Training appearance. Blake Treinen and Daniel Hudson followed that with one perfect inning each. It marked the first appearance for both Treinen and Hudson.
The veteran right-handers figure to be heavily leaned on this season as the Dodgers look to replace Kenley Jansen, who signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Braves.
Jason Martin provided insurance by driving in a run on a sacrifice bunt in the seventh inning, and Ryan Noda added an RBI single.
Jake Lamb continued to make his case for a spot on the Opening Day roster by going 3-for-3.
Dodgers DFA Beaty
During Wednesday’s game, the Dodgers made the signing of Hanser Alberto to a one-year contract official. He is guaranteed a $1.6 million salary this year, and the deal includes a $2 million team option for 2023 and $250,000 buyout.
Matt Beaty was designated for assignment in order to make room for Alberto on the 40-man roster.
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