LA Dodgers lose to the St. Louis Cardinals in rare rain-delayed game at Dodger Stadium (5/08)
“WAINWRIGHT RIGHT ON RAINY NIGHT” (pictured right below)
May 23, 2008: The Los Angeles Dodgers opened up their 3-game series with the 2006 World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals on a rare, wet Friday night at Chavez Ravine. The Cardinals put their newfound ace, Adam Wainwright, on the hill against the Dodger’s struggling sinker-baller, Derek Lowe. A strong and very entertaining pitcher’s duel ensued.
The Cardinal’s lone offensive output came in the top of the 3rd inning, when right fielder and rising star, Ryan Ludwick, hit his 13th home run of the season to straight-away center field. Ludwick’s mammoth shot was a “no-doubter,” estimated to travel over 425 feet. Dodger center fielder Matt Kemp barely gave chase before conceding the 2-run blast. Ludwick has moved into the cleanup spot to support slugger Albert Pujols. (Both pictured below)
With the exception of Ludwick, who went 3 for 4 on the night, Derek Lowe was able to keep the rest of the Cardinals offense in check, limiting them to a total of five hits through seven strong innings. Unfortunately for the Dodgers, however, Wainwright was able to accomplish the same feat for the Red Birds, although he did receive some timely assistance from the Blue Crew, who left a total of 16 men on base. The Dodgers’ lone run came in the bottom of the 7th inning, courtesy of a sacrifice fly off the bat of pinch hitter Mark Sweeney.
Despite Wainwright’s performance, the Dodgers had an excellent opportunity to tie or even win the game in the bottom of the ninth off Cardinal interim closer Ryan Franklin. Franklin is filling that role for the Cardinal’s oft-injured and long-time closer Jason Isringhausen, on the disabled list with a laceration on his pitching hand.
After two walks, a stolen base, and a 65 minute rain delay and the rain tarp being pulled out (pictured above) , the Dodgers sent up injured pinch hitter Andruw Jones to complete their comeback effort. Franklin was able to strike out Jones on a 1-2 pitch to secure the victory for the visiting Cardinals. Franklin, whose control appeared to be somewhat affected by the rare L.A. rain delay, managed to strike out the side to earn his 3rd save of the season. The win improved St. Louis’ record to 29-21 as they battle with the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros for the National League Central division lead. The Dodgers’ record fell to 25-22. The Dodgers were missing starting shortstop Rafael Furcal again and hope to have him back soon. They need Juan Pierre and Russell Martin among other key players to pick up the slack. Former starting pitcher Rick Ankiel of St. Louis (pictured below) has been inspiring making the starting lineup as their regular centerfielder despite having a quiet game.
Fans who patiently waited for the rains to subside were treated to a spectacular fireworks show after the game. More at www.dodgers.mlb.com
