Out of the spotlight, M. Ellis provides steady production

LOS ANGELES -- Mark Ellis is often overlooked on the Dodgers' star-studded roster, but the second baseman has been a central figure in the club's success in the second half.

Ellis is hitting .356 with two home runs, four doubles, one triple, 12 RBIs and nine runs scored in 21 games since the All-Star break, including a 13-game hit streak that was snapped last week. He's coming off a strong series over the weekend against the Rays, going 6-for-9 with four RBIs.

The veteran was a triple shy of the cycle Sunday, his second straight three-hit game, and has been solid with the glove.

"He doesn't get a whole lot of attention, but he quietly does his thing," said manager Don Mattingly. "He's gotten big hits for us. He's a great guy for a manager."

Ellis doesn't get much of the spotlight, and he's fine with that.

"I'm just trying to do something to help the team win," Ellis said. "It's just something I enjoy doing. I just want to be a part of a winning team."