DODGERS’ RAMON MARTINEZ (7-2, 2.70 ERA) vs....

DODGERS’ RAMON MARTINEZ (7-2, 2.70 ERA) vs. ATHLETICS’ BLAKE STEIN (1-3, 6.14 ERA)

* Update--Third baseman Bobby Bonilla missed the final two games of the three-game series against the Mariners because of flu. Bonilla said Sunday he felt better, but he is questionable for tonight’s game. The Dodgers defeated the Athletics twice at Dodger Stadium last season and split two games on the road with their Northern California neighbors. Martinez, who starts tonight in the series opener, has been a calming presence on a struggling staff. He is among the league leaders in several pitching categories. “Ramon has been our most consistent starter, and we’ve needed a big lift from him with everything that’s been going on,” Russell said. “Ramon doesn’t let anything affect him out there, and that’s the way you want all your starters to approach their jobs.” Martinez has won five straight and seven of his last eight decisions, going 5-0 with a 2.37 ERA during that span. Oakland rookie right fielder Ben Grieve is the leading candidate to win the American League rookie-of-the year award. Grieve, whose father, Tom, was formerly the general manager of the Texas Rangers, is batting .309 with 17 doubles, eight home runs and 37 RBIs. Knuckleball pitcher Tom Candiotti, who left his start Sunday against the Arizona Diamondbaks with back spasms, is not expected to pitch against his former teammates in this series.

* Tuesday, 7 p.m.--Chan Ho Park (4-3, 4.78) vs. Jimmy Haynes (4-2, 4.38).

* Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.--Ismael Valdes (4-7, 5.18) vs. Kenny Rogers (6-2, 3.43).