SPENCER PATTON

Abolishing the delivery business of it most prominent critic isn’t going to end widespread discontent.

One sure method of gauging the health of the Ground unit, where margins are narrowing, is the trend of payments to cover for failing contractors.

Freddie Freeman faces the Braves in Los Angeles for the first time since leaving the World Series champions and signing a $162 million, six-year deal with the Dodgers last month.

Mike Trout left the Los Angeles Angels’ 8-3 win over the Texas Rangers on Sunday after being hit in his left hand by a pitch, but the team said X-rays were negative and the three-time AL MVP is day to day. Trout was struck by a 1-1 slider from Rangers right-hander Spencer Patton leading off the fifth inning. “Like a normal day, I probably just turn like this (turning his left shoulder in) and just get hit,” Trout said.