Rays at Dodgers Preview

LOS ANGELES (Interstat) — The Tampa Bay Rays and Los Angeles Dodgers open a three-game series Monday night at Dodger Stadium, with the National League West-leading Dodgers looking to extend their edge over one of the American League’s top teams.

First pitch is set for 7:10 p.m., with the Dodgers (45-27) holding a 4½-game lead in the NL West. The Rays (41-27) are 1½ games behind the New York Yankees in the AL East.

The pitching matchup carries some uncertainty. Tampa Bay’s probable starter is listed as Nick Martinez (6-2) or Eric Lauer (2-5), a decision the Rays have not finalized. Martinez has been the more reliable arm, while Lauer has struggled. The Dodgers had not announced a starter as of Sunday evening.

Right-hander Emmet Sheehan is a pitcher to watch for Los Angeles. Sheehan lasted only 1⅓ innings in his last start against the Angels on June 7, allowing three hits and two earned runs. In his previous outing June 1 at Arizona, he threw 6⅓ innings with three hits and two earned runs.

Rays outfielder Victor Mesa Jr. is a player to watch for Tampa Bay. Mesa went 2 for 3 with a home run and two RBIs Sunday in an 8-3 win at the Los Angeles Angels. Over his last 10 games, Mesa is hitting .182 (4 for 22) with one homer and three RBIs.

The Rays come off a series win over the Angels, taking two of three. Tampa Bay also won three consecutive games against Boston from June 8-10, outscoring the Red Sox 14-9. The Rays are 5-5 in their last 10 games.

Los Angeles split a four-game series at the Chicago White Sox, losing 6-4 on Sunday. The Dodgers have won seven of their last 10. Shortstop Mookie Betts, who went 2 for 4 with a home run and an RBI on Sunday, is among the club’s top offensive threats.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 6-4 Dodgers victory. Los Angeles opened as a -1.5 run favorite, with an over/under of 8.5 runs.

The series continues Tuesday and Wednesday before both teams return home for weekend sets. The Rays host Washington starting Friday, while the Dodgers host Baltimore.