The Dodgers begin the second half with a 4 1/2-game lead over San Francisco in the NL West, having managed to remain in first since the end of May despite a rotation hit by injuries and an inconsistent offense. The Dodgers open a 10-game trip against NL East opponents starting Friday at Washington. Clayton Kershaw (6-6, 2.85 ERA) will start for the Dodgers after taking the loss in the All-Star Game on Tuesday.