Oh Sure, Blame James Loney

The Dodgers have scored only one run since the All-Star Break and look nothing like the potent offensive team, always primed for a comeback victory, that they did prior to the break. And now Jim Peltz speculates that it may be James Loney's lack of power which is to blame: James Loney is again proving himself a consistent hitter, even if the Dodgers' first baseman has yet to reach his potential in the eyes of Manager Joe Torre. Loney, 25, had hit safely in 12 consecutive games before going 0 for 3 in Friday's 8-1 loss to the Houston Astros, batting .304 (14 for 46) during the streak. It was Loney's longest streak of the season, topping an 11-game streak from May 17-28, when the Texas native batted .370. The latest streak lifted Loney's overall average to .281, though it was down to .279 after Friday's game. But the question that has lingered for some time is whether he can hit for more power. Loney has hit seven home runs, compared with Andre Ethier'...