Dave Roberts writes yet another lineup for Dodgers

For the 32nd time in 39 games, Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts used a new lineup, this one for Monday’s Freeway Series opener with the Angels.

He sat third baseman Justin Turner and right fielder Yasiel Puig. In their places were Howie Kendrick, batting third and playing third base, and Trayce Thompson, batting seventh and playing right.

It is a delicate balance for Roberts as he tries to find a consistent source of offensive production while placating the various members of his roster. The Dodgers were not designed to utilize the same group of eight hitters every night. Roberts believes the strategy will benefit the team in the second half of the season.

“I like this, in the sense that everybody feels they’re doing their part to contribute to wins,” Roberts said. “And I do believe, again, when we look into September, when guys are fresh and feeling good, collectively, from the catching position, second base, third base — whatever position — ultimately, the numbers will be there.”

The Dodgers felt Puig was on the verge of a breakout after a three-hit game against St. Louis on Friday. But Puig went hitless in the next two games, and continued to swing with abandon at pitches early in the count. He entered Monday with a .234 batting average and a .655 on-base-plus-slugging percentage.

“I think we’re heading in the right direction with Yasiel,” Roberts said. “But I think a day [off] will help. And also, his body [benefits].”

Nice punchline

Like everyone else in the game, Roberts saw the titanic punch from Texas Rangers infielder Rougned Odor that connected with the jaw of Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Jose Bautista on Sunday. Roberts considered it the best punch he had ever seen in a baseball game.

Asked who on his team could handle Odor in a fight, Roberts laughed, then searched for a name. He mentioned Adrian Gonzalez’s off-season boxing regimen, but thought better of it.

“I want no part of him, man,” Roberts said. “He’s got a good right.”