Dodgers 4, Cardinals 3

Ethier's walkoff single (would have been a double if it hadn't been a walkoff) ended the game, the two-game losing streak and the series -- and this seemingly endless three-day stretch of watching Tony La Russa (over)manage. Anyway, the Dodgers actually two TWO hits w/RISP in THE SAME GAME. They are now 2 for 29 over the past four games. But hey, they won, and Kershaw's debut was a smashing success (albeit one with no decision). He struck out seven over six pretty good innings in which he held the Redbirds to two runs on five hits. His next start will come on Friday night at Shea. The bullpen came up big in this one, especially Broxton and Saito, who both had to take on more than their usual share of the load. Brox went 1 2/3, Saito two innings for the win. ... Dodgers go to 26-23 and stay 3 1/2 behind the Snakes. ... On to Chicago. There is a redeye leaving tonight with my name on it.