With the Rockies destined for a losing season, general manager Dan O'Dowd is faced with the off-season challenge of providing a infusion that will allow a team with a solid core to return to contention next year. 

Since an eight-game losing streak last month, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made a dramatic turnaround and are showing little signs of slowing down anytime soon. 

The Colorado Rockies activated first baseman Todd Helton from the 60-day disabled list on Friday. 

Contenders usually spend September with one eye on the out-of-town scoreboard. 

James Loney drove in three runs, Chad Billingsley pitched six solid innings and the surging Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Colorado Rockies 7-2 on Friday night. 

James Loney drove in three runs, Chad Billingsley pitched six solid innings and the surging Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Colorado Rockies 7-2 on Friday night. 

James Loney drove in three runs, Chad Billingsley pitched six solid innings and the surging Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Colorado Rockies 7-2 on Friday night. 

If the Brewers miss the playoffs, manager Ned Yost will be as good as gone. 

If the Brewers miss the playoffs, manager Ned Yost will be as good as gone. 

The Colorado Rockies activated first baseman Todd Helton from the 60-day disabled list on Friday. 

The Colorado Rockies activated first baseman Todd Helton from the 60-day disabled list on Friday. 

MEDICAL WATCH: C Yorvit Torrealba (torn meniscus in left knee) went on the 15-day disabled list Aug. 

With an eye toward next season, manager Clint Hurdle announced that right-hander Greg Reynolds, 23, will replace struggling Livan Hernandez in the rotation and start Monday against San Diego. 

--1B Todd Helton saw 38 pitches and swung at 18 against RHP Jason Hirsh in a simulated game. 

The Los Angeles Dodgers have opened up some breathing room in the NL West race, thanks in large part to Manny Ramirez.