Sandoval scratched vs. Dodgers with flu-like symptoms

SAN FRANCISCO -- Third baseman Pablo Sandoval was scratched from the Giants' lineup for Thursday night's series finale against the Los Angeles Dodgers with flu-like symptoms.

Rookie utility man Nick Noonan replaced Sandoval at third base. Second baseman Tony Abreu and shortstop Brandon Crawford, originally slated to bat seventh and eighth, respectively, each moved up a spot in the batting order as a result of Sandoval's vacating the sixth position.

Paradoxically, Sandoval's illness might have proven timely in one respect. Giants manager Bruce Bochy said that Sandoval reported back tightness after Wednesday night's game, when he contributed a two-run homer to the Giants' 6-4 victory over Los Angeles.

On the other hand, Sandoval owns a .462 batting average (6-for-13) against right-hander Edinson Volquez, who started Thursday for the Dodgers.