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Rojas impressing Mattingly with defense

MILWAUKEE -- Yasiel Puig's running catch of Josh Hamilton's drive to the fence on Thursday night in Anaheim was repeated constantly on TV highlight reels, but manager Don Mattingly had this question for reporters.

"What about Rojas?" Mattingly asked. "Nobody asked me about Rojas. He saved four or five hits."

Mattingly was promoting the reliable and sometimes spectacular play of Miguel Rojas, who was given a rare start at shortstop with regular Hanley Ramirez used as the designated hitter in an American League park.

Rojas had 10 assists without an error, started one double play and, in Mattingly's estimation, saved at least two runs in the 7-0 win.

Rojas is generally used as a late-inning replacement for Ramirez when the Dodgers are leading. That role, and the acquisition of Darwin Barney, made veteran Chone Figgins expendable, and Figgins has been designated for assignment.

Rojas was pressed into service early in the series opener in Milwaukee when Ramirez exited with an injury.

Ken Gurnick is a reporter for MLB.com.
Read More: Los Angeles Dodgers, Miguel Rojas