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Stewart vying for starting spot with Rockies

Aug 20, 2008 - 10:08 AM Colorado (58-69) at LA Dodgers (64-61) 10:10 p.m. EDT

LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- Ian Stewart is making a strong case to break into the Colorado Rockies' starting lineup on a full-time basis.

Stewart and the Rockies go for their fifth straight win on Wednesday against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The 23-year-old infielder has spent two different stints in the majors this season struggling to perform well enough to earn a permanent promotion. However, since being recalled on July 19, Stewart has been outstanding, posting a .350 average with six home runs and 32 RBI in 29 games.

Stewart had his best game in the majors on Tuesday, stroking his ninth homer and driving in a career-high five runs as the Rockies posted an 8-3 victory over the Dodgers, who fell one game behind the first-place Arizona Diamondbacks (65-60) in the National League West.

Stewart, who has registered at least one hit in nine of his last 10 games, tries to continue his hot hitting against Dodgers starter Chad Billingsley (12-9, 3.10 ERA).

Billingsley has been dominant of late, winning each of his last three decisions while limiting opponents to three runs or less in seven straight starts. The 24-year-old righthander allowed three runs and five hits in seven frames, tying his career high in wins during Friday's 5-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.

Jeff Francis (3-8, 5.74) tries to earn his first win since June 18 when he counters for the Rockies.