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Scott Podsednik starts and bats leadoff; Dodgers designate reliever Jack Taschner

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Newly acquired outfielder Scott Podsednik not only arrived in time for the Dodgers’ afternoon game in San Diego Thursday, but was inserted into the lineup -- in the leadoff spot.

Manager Joe Torre moved Rafael Furcal from leadoff to the second spot after first discussing the move with Furcal, who he said was fine with it.

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This gives the Dodgers two speedsters at the top of the lineup and should help generate some offense -- some offense representing a grand improvement these days.

Podsednik is starting in center, Torre electing to give Matt Kemp the day off.

To make room for Podsednik, the Dodgers designated Jack Taschner for assignment. Which just goes to show how quickly in this bullpen one can go from being the late-inning, left-handed specialist to heading out of town.

Taschner’s departure again leaves George Sherrill sharing the late-inning responsibilities when the Dodgers would prefer not to use Hong-Chih Kuo on consecutive days. Torre had appointed Taschner his late-inning left-hander only a week ago.

The season has been a struggle for Sherrill, but he has retired his last six consecutive batters.

-- Steve Dilbeck

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