Dodgers open Cactus League play against Cubs

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MESA, Ariz. -- The Dodgers took 33 players to Hohokam Stadium today for their Cactus League opener against the Chicago Cubs, including most of their regulars.

Russell Martin, Rafael Furcal, Orlando Hudson and Mark Loretta were the position players who stayed at Camelback Ranch. Manager Joe Torre said Furcal and Hudson would play on Thursday against the San Francisco Giants in Scottsdale.

In his pregame Q&A session with reporters, Torre denied that Manny Ramirez’s uncertain status was a distraction.

A Ramirez look-alike behind the Dodgers’ dugout drew the attention of several players, including Casey Blake, who yelled at the man, ‘Hey, Manny, we need you!’

Today’s game can be heard on KABC 790 AM.

Here’s the Dodgers lineup:

LF Juan Pierre
C Brad Ausmus
RF Andre Ethier
1B James Loney
3B Casey Blake
CF Matt Kemp
2B Blake DeWitt
DH Delwyn Young
SS Tony Abreu

-- Dylan Hernandez