Dodgers send shortstop Dee Gordon to triple A

Shortstop Dee Gordon was sent down to the triple-A Albuquerque on Monday before the Dodgers’ series opener against the Angels.

The move was made to clear a roster spot for utilityman Jerry Hairston Jr., who was reinstated from the disabled list.

Gordon was called up May 4, the day Hanley Ramirez landed on the DL for the second time.

Gordon started 19 games, making two errors. He batted only .175.

Manager Don Mattingly said Gordon, 25, would benefit from more time in the minor leagues.

For the first time since he was placed on the disabled list with a strained left hamstring, Ramirez ran the bases. If he continues to progress in his recovery, he could start a minor league rehabilitation assignment some time after the Dodgers’ two games in Anaheim later this week.

Until Ramirez returns, Nick Punto and Luis Cruz will split time at shortstop, according to Mattingly.