Postgame: Dodgers 3, Reds 2 (12 innings)

The Dodgers beat the Reds 3-2 today in 12 innings. For a full recap and boxscore, click here.

THE BARE ESSENTIALS:

Clayton Kershaw was at his best, striking out 11 in seven innings while allowing only two runs. His only real blemish was a second-inning two-run homer by Darnell McDonald — James’ cousin.

Until the 12th, the Dodgers’ only runs came in the fifth inning, when Matt Kemp hit a solo homer and Clayton Kershaw drove a ball up the middle that found a hole and brought in Casey Blake.

Then, with the bases loaded in the 12th, Kemp hit a deep fly ball to center that looked like a possible grand slam. Cincinnati center fielder Drew Stubbs caught it on the warning track, but Manny Ramirez came in to score on the sacrifice fly.

ETC…ETC:

The Reds’ Bronson Arroyo was also effective. Arroyo scattered six hits over 7 1/3 innings, maneuvering his way through the Dodger lineup by changing speeds frequently. He struck out only three.

The Dodgers had 11 hits as a team, but not one player had more than one. Rafael Furcal was the only starter held hitless.

The Dodger bullpen continued to shine, as George Sherrill, Ramon Troncoso, Hong-Chih Kuo, James McDonald, and Jonathan Broxton pitched five scoreless innings.

ON DECK:

The Dodgers host Arizona tomorrow night, sending Randy Wolf (9-6, 3.25) against Doug Davis (7-11, 3.75).