Dodgers still can't support Hiroki Kuroda, as five-game winning streak ends in a 3-2 loss to Diamondbacks
Hiroki Kuroda must wonder if his teammates are trying to get him traded. Some bat boys feel more love.
Kuroda the Cursed ventured Saturday into Phoenix, making what could be one his final starts as a Dodger, and it looked a lot like most of his other starts this season.
He pitched very well, received precious little run support, and lost.
This time it was to the Arizona Diamondbacks, who rode a three-run homer by Brandon Allen in the second inning to a 3-2 victory over the Dodgers, ending their season-high five-game winning streak.
In the third, he gave up a leadoff double to Stephen Drew, who was thrown out foolishly trying to stretch it into a triple. And after that, Kuroda was lights out, never allowing another hit and retiring 12 of his final 13 batters.
It left his ERA at 3.13, which would be a career low, but with a 6-11 record.
Not that it’s anything new for Kuroda. In nine of his 19 starts this season, the Dodgers have scored two or fewer runs.
Kuroda is the one semi-prize the Dodgers can offer a team if they decide to become sellers at the July 31 non-waiver trading deadline. Kuroda has a no-trade clause, although the way the Dodgers continue to support him, he may seriously consider approving a trade.
Kuroda struck out seven, did not walk a batter and retired his last nine Diamondbacks. And lost.
Kennedy (10-3) gave up five hits and three walks in his seven innings, which proved just enough. David Hernandez pitched the ninth to earn the save.
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-- Steve Dilbeck
Photo: Hiroki Kuroda. Credit: Christian Petersen / Getty Images
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