Dodgers' Ross Stripling: Takes loss in return to majors

Stripling (3-5) gave up three runs on seven hits and a walk over five innings in Thursday's loss to the Giants.

Analysis:

His demotion to the minors didn't last long, as he went down last Friday and was brought back up Tuesday in advance of this start. Unfortunately, the results weren't any better than they've been all year long -- Stripling has provided precious little in the way of longevity or run prevention as a starter, posting a 4.59 ERA over 64.2 innings. He's been much more effective (albeit in a limited sample) out of the bullpen, but the Dodgers' banged-up pitching staff needs him in the rotation for the time being. A dark cloud looms on the horizon for Stripling, as he'll make his next start against the Rockies in Coors Field on Tuesday.