A Sore Muscle Puts Kent on Bench

Second baseman Jeff Kent was a last-minute scratch from the lineup Tuesday after aggravating an abdominal muscle on his left side during batting practice. Kent first felt soreness Monday during the 10-4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks, and despite being penciled into the lineup Tuesday, he was concerned enough to ask Manager Grady Little for some rest.

“It feels more like a cramp,” said Kent, who said the pain was a small issue. “I’m concerned enough to rest it.”

Kent, who said he has had abdominal injuries in the past, said he might be able to play today.

“When you deal with a side, there’s not a lot there,” Kent said. “You have to be careful.”

Ramon Martinez replaced Kent in the lineup and was 0 for 3.

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There was no introduction necessary for the newest member of the Dodgers, relief pitcher Giovanni Carrara, whose contract was purchased from triple-A Las Vegas. It marks his third stint with the ballclub.

“Hopefully this one’s for good,” said Carrara, who spent a combined four seasons with the Dodgers.

When reliever Odalis Perez entered the clubhouse, he and Carrara shared a hug. Carrara and Cesar Izturis, friends since Izturis was a child in Venezuela, talked at length during batting practice.

Carrara pitched two innings Tuesday, giving up two hits and run.

To make room for him, the Dodgers optioned pitcher Hong-Chih Kuo to Las Vegas, and put Ricky Ledee on the 60-day disabled list. Ledee, who has been out since May 2 because of a pulled left groin muscle, will begin his rehabilitation assignment today at double-A Jacksonville.

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Outfielders Kenny Lofton (strained hamstring) and J.D. Drew (bruised foot) are questionable for today’s game.