Rehabbing Crawford expected back for Friday's game

DENVER -- Rehabbing Dodgers outfielder Carl Crawford went 1-for-3 with a walk and strikeout as designated hitter Wednesday night to conclude his four-game rehab stint with Class A Rancho Cucamonga.

Manager Don Mattingly said before the Dodgers beat the Rockies, 10-8, that he expects Crawford to travel to San Francisco Thursday and meet the team in time for Friday night's series opener against the Giants.

Crawford (5-for-13 in four rehab games) has been on the disabled list with a strained left hamstring since June 2. His return will present Mattingly with four outfielders -- Crawford, Yasiel Puig, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier -- for three positions.

Mattingly has indicated Puig will probably play the most, with the other three rotating to stay fresh based on opposing pitcher matchups.

Contrary to media speculation, management apparently is not looking to trade any of them at this time, especially considering the recent hamstring problems of Crawford and Kemp, as well as the dangerously wild and exciting play of Puig.