Shaw Has Team’s Support

The Dodgers acknowledge that things haven’t been going well recently for closer Jeff Shaw.

But they strongly support the all-star pitcher because of what he has meant to the team. Shaw’s teammates defended him after he suffered his third blown save of the week Saturday and lost to the New York Mets, 4-3.

“Jeff has done a great job,” said left-hander Brian Bohanon, who was denied victories twice this week because Shaw failed to protect leads.

“The last couple of times out, yeah, he’s struggled. But Jeff is a proven guy, and you have to keep going to him.”

Shaw (3-8) suffered his second loss in as many days and his fourth blown save with the Dodgers. Shaw has 15 saves with the team--38 overall--since he was acquired July 4 from the Cincinnati Reds for infielder Paul Konerko and pitcher Dennis Reyes.

He pitched for the fifth time in six days Saturday. Manager Glenn Hoffman won’t acknowledge it, but he may feel compelled to use Shaw more than he would prefer because he lacks confidence in other members of the bullpen.

“Shaw has been the guy,” Hoffman said. “I know I’ve taxed him pretty well recently, but [right-hander Antonio] Osuna’s arm is sore, and he [Shaw] said he’s fine.”

Shaw said Hoffman is using him correctly.

“I’ve had some tough mental innings over the last couple of nights,” Shaw said. “I’m a little tired, but it’s more mental than physical.

“You’re not going to be perfect, you’re not going to be 100 for 100. You strive for that, but it’s not going to happen.”

Left fielder Trenidad Hubbard said Shaw is among the main reasons for whatever success the Dodgers have had.

“I know I would go into war with Jeff Shaw,” Hubbard said. “I’d like to see him right back out there tomorrow in that same situation, giving us a chance to smile.”

*

Right fielder Gary Sheffield was forced to leave Saturday’s game in the fifth inning after spraining his left thumb while batting in the first.

Sheffield is listed as day to day, Hoffman said.

Tonight

DODGERS’ DAVE MLICKI (7-6, 4.71 ERA) vs. METS’ MASATO YOSHII (5-7, 3.38 ERA)

Dodger Stadium, 5 p.m.

Radio--AM 1150, KWKW (1330).

* Update--Mlicki defeated the Montreal Expos, 4-3, in his most recent start Tuesday at Dodger Stadium. The right-hander gave up seven hits and two runs in 6 2/3 innings. New York catcher Mike Piazza was three for four Saturday and is batting .452 (14 for 31) with three home runs and 12 runs batted in over his last nine games.