Notes: Muncy update, Pederson, Chico returns
LOS ANGELES -- Infielder Max Muncy has resumed swinging the bat after injuring his left ring finger when hit by a pitch last weekend, and manager Dave Roberts said he should be ready for Opening Day.
Roberts said Muncy has been able to take batting practice with no pain, but he still feels discomfort when catching balls.
“I do see him getting some at-bats [in intrasquad games] soon, but it will probably be in the DH variety,” Roberts said. “But the hope is we can see him at first base on Opening Day.”
Dodgers notes
• Joc Pederson, who missed most of Spring Training with hip and side issues, worked with a “movement coach” during the break to improve flexibility and prevent injury at the suggestion of teammate Austin Barnes, who used the same trainer to combat back issues.
Pederson said he feels lighter on his feet and he already has two stolen bases in intrasquad games. He had one stolen base each of the last two seasons.
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• Clayton Kershaw started and struck out eight in five-plus innings of Sunday night’s intrasquad game. He was taken deep by Edwin Ríos, his third home run of Summer Camp.
Ross Stripling, likely rotation replacement for David Price, struck out seven (Gavin Lux three times) in 5 2/3 innings against most of the starting lineup and allowed a home run to Will Smith. Caleb Ferguson, Adam Kolarek, Brusdar Graterol and Brett de Geus also pitched.
• Roberts said non-roster outfielder Anthony García felt a groin muscle tighten, which apparently led to the return to the lineup on Sunday of clubhouse attendant Francisco “Chico” Herrera, a Summer Camp sensation in left field after throwing out Chris Taylor trying to tag from first base to second base.
Herrera was forced into action because the Dodgers have been shorthanded by the continuing absences of position players A.J. Pollock, Zach Reks, Cody Thomas and Lux (since returned).