Kemp returns as Dodgers stack righties

LOS ANGELES -- Outfielder Matt Kemp returned to the Dodgers' lineup on Monday night as manager Don Mattingly stacked the order with right-handed bats to counter Angels left-handed starter C.J. Wilson.

The right-handed-heavy lineup featured Jerry Hairston Jr., activated from the disabled list, and Scott Van Slyke, feeling better from a stiff neck, at the corner-outfield spots in place of left-handers Carl Crawford and Andre Ethier. Crawford is 3-for-21 (.143) in his career against Wilson.

"Carl has been getting after it pretty good for us," Mattingly said. "Dre is a little bit banged up, but it really didn't have anything to do with that. He was ready to play today."

Mattingly said he especially wanted to get Van Slyke back in the lineup. The rookie entered Monday hitting .261 with three homers, two doubles and six RBIs in 10 games.

"I feel like he's had good at-bats, been a little dangerous," Mattingly said.

Ramon Hernandez started at catcher in place of A.J. Ellis, who has struck out in seven of nine at-bats since he was involved in a collision at home plate with the Cardinals' Jon Jay on Friday. Ellis went 0-for-3 on Sunday, his third start in as many days.

"I felt like I went a day too long yesterday with [Ellis]," Mattingly said.

Luis Cruz, hitting .096, started at third base for the first time since May 17.