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Was that the last start for Aaron Harang for Dodgers?

Aaron Harang, shown during a spring training game, is one of several pitchers vying for precious few spots in the Dodgers' rotation.
(Matt York / Associated Press)
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So now what becomes of Aaron Harang?

It’s the same question Chris Capuano pondered Monday after throwing seven scoreless innings against Cleveland Indians minor leaguers.

The exhibition season is down to its final four days and the Dodgers still have those eight starting pitchers.

Harang started Tuesday, and after initially looking like he wasn’t interested in auditioning for any team, recovered to pitch well enough to keep his name in the conversation during the Dodgers’ 7-6 loss to the Rockies in their final game this spring at Camelback Ranch.

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He started Tuesday off by walking his first three batters and giving up a grand slam to Michael Cuddyer. It almost had to get better after that, and it did. Harang allowed one other run on three more hits and a walk in his 5 1/3 innings, striking out five.

But even if Ted Lilly starts the season on the disabled list, the Dodgers still have two extra starters heading into spring’s final days. Harang or Capuano could now head to the bullpen, or the Dodgers could trade at least one before the opener on Monday.

Scouts have followed the outings of each, but if General Manager Ned Colletti is going to pull the handle on a deal, the time is at hand.

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Harang’s spring 8.20 ERA isn’t going to draw raves, but he went 10-10 with a 3.61 ERA last season and figures to draw interest.

One ex-Dodgers starter kept the Dodgers’ offense at bay Tuesday. Jon Garland, making his first start for the Rockies after being released by the Mariners, held the Dodgers to one run on five hits in his six innings.

Backup catcher Tim Federowicz led the L.A. offense, delivering a three-run homer against Manny Corpas in the eighth.

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Andre Ethier, who tripled for the third time this spring in the second inning, left the game with what he called tightness in his right hamstring. He still plans to work out Wednesday and play Thursday.

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