Russell Rewards Ashley With Start

Though left-handed hitting outfielder Todd Hollandsworth has been a key part of the Dodgers’ offense of late, against Philadelphia left-hander David West on Tuesday, right-handed hitting Billy Ashley was back in the starting lineup, batting seventh. He went 0-for-2.

Dodger Manager Bill Russell said that Ashley’s lack of playing time recently--Ashley had only 10 at-bats in August before Tuesday--wasn’t due to any dissatisfaction with Ashley’s play.

Ashley has started 30 games in left field this season. Hollandsworth has started 70 in left and 18 in center field.

Before Tuesday, Hollandsworth was batting .302 (16-for-53) in August.

“Ashley’s had some good at-bats, he’s been patient at the plate,” Russell said. “We just haven’t seen that many lefties lately.

“I like what I’ve seen out of Billy, he’s got more confidence, he’s been aggressive--he’s had three pinch-hit homers, so he deserves a shot.”