LOS ANGELES (AP) -The Dodgers, looking for some punch in the wake of their second 1-0 loss in five games, recalled first baseman-outfielder James Loney from Triple-A Las Vegas on Sunday and designated outfielder Brady Clark for assignment.
The 23-year-old Loney, who hit .279 with one homer and 32 RBIs in 58 games at Las Vegas, arrived at Dodger Stadium about two hours before game time and was in the lineup against Toronto ace Roy Halladay, batting sixth and playing first base as a fill-in for Nomar Garciaparra.
“Coming into the season, we had plans to give Nomar more regular days off,” Dodgers manager Grady Little said. “So far, we haven’t been able to do that. What we’re looking at is September and October.”
Loney, the 19th overall pick in the 2002 first-year player draft, played in 48 games for the Dodgers last season, hitting .284 with four homers and 18 RBIs. He led the team in spring training with a .414 average in 28 games.
“It feels great,” he said of being recalled. “I’m glad to be back, get an opportunity to help the team in any way I can.”
The 34-year-old Clark, acquired in a spring training trade from the Milwaukee Brewers, played in 47 games for the Dodgers, hitting .224 with no homers and five RBIs. He was used mostly as a pinch hitter or late-game replacement, getting 13 hits in 58 at-bats.
The Dodgers have 10 days to either trade or release Clark, who said he believes he’ll become a free agent.
“It’s a business,” he said. “It’s part of the game. I think it’s a blessing in disguise for me. I hope it is. Everything happens for a reason. There are 29 other teams – hopefully there’s a place for me.”
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