Game 148: Pirates at Dodgers

Probables: Francisco Liriano (10-7, 3.45) vs. Clayton Kershaw (14-6, 2.12)
Preview:
http://m.mlb.com/news/article/201509...game_pk=415870
"Kershaw aims to keep LA surging toward title
By Steve Bourbon / MLB.com | + 3 COMMENTS
As the regular season winds down, the Dodgers are sprinting toward the finish line.
Los Angeles is 18-5 since Aug. 25, which is the best record in baseball, after a 6-2 win over the Pirates on Friday. The Dodgers have opened a 8 1/2 game lead over the Giants in the NL West and their magic number to clinch the NL West is at 8. The Pirates, meanwhile, are trying to hold onto the top spot in the NL Wild Card as Pittsburgh has just a one-game lead over the Cubs.
After nearly being left off the National League All-Star team, Clayton Kershaw hasn't lost a decision since June 27 and has a 0.98 ERA in 13 starts since. His 264 strikeouts lead the Majors. For the Pirates, Francisco Liriano is coming off an outing in which he didn't get out of the third inning as he allowed five runs in 2 1/3 innings pitched.
Things to know about this game
• Howie Kendrick is expected to make his first start since being activated off the disabled list on Friday. Kendrick is being eased back into the lineup and will split time with Chase Utley at second base.
• Liriano was roughed up in his only start this season against the Dodgers as Los Angeles scored four runs on seven hits and Liriano was pulled after just three innings. Pittsburgh went on to win the game, however, 6-5.
• Andrew McCutchen has had success in his career against Kershaw. McCutchen is hitting .381 (8-for-21) lifetime against the reigning National League MVP and has struck out just twice in 23 plate appearances.
Steve Bourbon is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs."