Marmol allows HR in first Minors appearance

PHOENIX -- Reliever Carlos Marmol served up a home run to the first batter he faced Wednesday, the only run he allowed in one inning while pitching for the Dodgers' Class A affiliate, Rancho Cucamonga.

Marmol was acquired from the Cubs on July 2 along with financial considerations that included $209,700 in international signing space. In return, the Cubs received reliever Matt Guerrier, who, like Marmol, had been designated for assignment.

With general manager Ned Colletti in attendance, Marmol also allowed a single, struck out one and made a wild pickoff throw to first base while facing High Desert.

The Dodgers are hopeful they can resurrect Marmol, who they believe needs, in addition to the mechanical tweaks, a change of scenery after losing the Cubs' closer role and becoming a target of Wrigley Field critics.

Marmol accepted the assignment and reported to the club's Camelback Ranch complex in Glendale, Ariz., to work with instructors.