ThePirates made two moves yesterday in an attempt to solidify their bench for the near and distant future. 

TheLosAngelesDodgers tonight will debut a season- long series of fireworks shows following each game atDodger Stadium on Fridays, when game time will be 30 minutes earlier than on Fridays last year. 

The Dodgers offense, projected before the season to be one of the most dangerous in the National League, had yet to really kick into high gear through April 12. 

Dodgers infielder Doug Mientkiewicz will undergo surgery Monday to repair a complete dislocation of his right shoulder, which he suffered when he made an awkward slide into second base on his pinch-hit, two-run double in Thursday night's win over San Fran 

--IF Blake DeWitt was recalled from Class AAA Albuquerque to take Doug Mientkiewicz's roster spot just four days after DeWitt was optioned so he could get regular playing time. 

What a glorious place, the National League West, where no deficit is insurmountable. 

When Doug Mientkiewicz hurt himself sliding headfirst into second base with his two-run double Thursday night, mostDodgers fans probably shrugged. 

This isn't quite the Barry Bonds treatment, but it might be close. 

After losing veterans Derek Lowe and Brad Penny to free agency, the Los Angeles Dodgers were looking for Chad Billingsley to pitch like an ace. 

LOS ANGELES First, the good news: The Giants have plenty of talent to challenge theDodgers once more. 

LOS ANGELES First, the good news: TheGiants have plenty of talent to challenge the Dodgers once more. 

It's UCLA Night atDodger Stadium tonight, when theLosAngelesDodgers will pay tribute to the university both before and during their game against the San Francisco Giants. 

So many losses, so many questions. 

The Dodgers offense, projected before the season to be one of the most dangerous in the National League, had yet to really kick into high gear through April 12. 

--1B James Loney went 1-for-4 Thursday, leaving him with a .