Dodgers’ offense still searching for much-needed consistency

12:44 AM ET

WASHINGTON – The Los Angeles Dodgers went with their hard-hat lineup Wednesday, loading the batter’s box with right-handed hitters against Washington Nationals left-handed starter Gio Gonzalez.

Chris Taylor was at second base, Charlie Culberson was at shortstop, Scott Van Slyke was in right field and Howie Kendrick continued with his rebirth in left. There would be no continuity on this night, though, as the Dodgers were unable to sustain the momentum they appeared to build with an offensive outburst in a victory Tuesday.

While better with the bats of late, the Dodgers still are looking for ways to keep run production flowing for extended periods. It will be a must as they continue on for an undetermined amount of time without ace starter Clayton Kershaw.

Charlie Culberson took advantage of his opportunity by knocking in the Dodgers’ only run Wednesday, but the team needs more production up and down the lineup. Brad Mills/USA TODAY Sports

The Dodgers also learned Wednesday that Alex Wood probably won’t be able to return until the tail end of September, and even if he does, a relief role seems likely. And there continues to be no timetable for the return of Andre Ethier, who suffered a fractured right tibia in spring training.

The Dodgers were even …

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