LOS ANGELES -- Dodgers center fielder Joc Pederson on Wednesday said he was feeling better but was still a little sore a day after sustaining a neck strain and assorted injuries in a violent collision with teammate Yasiel Puig during a 2-1 win over the Cardinals.
"I think that was expected," he said, "but we're going to take that day by day."
Chris Taylor, a career infielder, made his first Major League start as an outfielder on Wednesday, replacing Pederson in center.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Pederson went through a concussion protocol and was still being monitored, but he didn't think Pederson will spend time on the disabled list. Roberts said Pederson would only be available in an emergency situation Wednesday night.
"We're continuing to monitor the concussion piece," Roberts said. "As of now, he's sort of passed all of those tests. Hopefully he'll be back. Even optimistically, he'll be back in there tomorrow."

Ryu's role up in the air
Alex Wood, Brandon McCarthy and Clayton Kershaw were announced by Roberts as the starting pitchers for the Dodgers' three-game series against the Cubs this weekend.
Still absent from the rotation is left-hander Hyun-Jin Ryu, for whom Roberts said the Dodgers are trying to "find a spot." Ryu last started on Thursday, when he allowed two runs in 5 1/3 innings against the Marlins.
Roberts left open the possibility of Ryu coming out of the bullpen as a long reliever, but said a move like that would not be permanent.
"Just making sure Ryu feels fine, physically, mentally and emotionally," Roberts said. "We're trying to figure out where we can get him back in the mix."