Pierre ends up on DL

HOUSTON -- The cavalry may soon be riding to the Dodgers’ rescue -- and not a moment too soon since the team’s disabled list grew again Monday when an MRI exam revealed outfielder Juan Pierre could be out a month to six weeks because of a sprained left knee.

Shortstop Rafael Furcal, sidelined since May 6 by a sore back; third baseman Nomar Garciaparra, out two months because of a strained calf; and outfielder Andruw Jones, who had knee surgery a month ago, all made rehab starts Monday for triple-A Las Vegas, the first steps toward what could be a rapid return to the Dodgers’ lineup.

Furcal and Garciaparra played four innings, with Furcal doubling and driving in a run in three at-bats and Garciaparra going 0 for 2 with a walk. Jones, the designated hitter, walked and homered, scoring twice, before leaving for a pinch-hitter in the eighth inning of the 12-9 victory over Salt Lake City.

“Hopefully we’re going to get people back here within the week. How many of them, that remains to be seen,” said Dodgers Manager Joe Torre, who could see Garciaparra and Furcal by the weekend. Pitchers Hiroki Kuroda and Brad Penny could also come off the DL this week but Jones isn’t expected back until after the All-Star break.

“I used to get bent out of shape over injuries but I realize there’s nothing you can do about it,” Torre said. “It’s things that can happen. That’s where the luck part of this game comes in.”

-- Kevin Baxter