Yasiel Puig is not expected to be sidelined by back inflammation

PHOENIX -- Outfielder Yasiel Puig left the Dodgers’ 10-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday after two hitless at-bats because of inflammation in his upper back.

Puig and Manager Don Mattingly said the trainers told them the problem isn’t serious and Puig is expected to play in the field Thursday against the Angels in Tempe, Ariz.

“Obviously, if he came in tomorrow not doing good, then we wouldn’t probably [play him].” Mattingly said of Puig, who is hitting .231 in 13 at-bats.

Mattingly said he wasn’t sure when Puig may have aggravated his back but Puig was wearing ice packs on both shoulders after Tuesday’s game.

“I try never to figure out Yasiel,” said Mattingly, who added that Puig seemed to be having trouble swinging the bat Wednesday. “I just go with what the trainer tells me. We move forward.”