Dodgers scratch Hyun-Jin Ryu from next start with back stiffness

DENVER -- Dodgers rookie left-hander Hyun-Jin Ryu won’t make his scheduled start Friday in Cincinnati because of stiffness in the middle of his back.

Left-hander Chris Capuano will start in Ryu’s place.

Ryu felt discomfort in his back after his most recent start, Manager Don Mattingly said. Ryu threw Tuesday and still felt something wasn’t right.

Right-hander Zack Greinke and left-hander Clayton Kershaw remain on schedule to pitch the second and third games, respectively, of the series with the Reds.

Right-hander Ricky Nolasco will pitch the series opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium on Monday. If Ryu recovers, he will pitch in the second or third game of the series with the Diamondbacks.