Cuban rookie energizes Dodgers

tled runner to end the game with a double play in a 2-1 victory.

The next night, Puig hit two home runs in a 9-7 win. He came down to earth last Wednesday with an 0 for 4 night that included two strikeouts. But he bounced back the following night with the grand slam, inducing Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully, who’s seen plenty of remarkable feats, to proclaim, “I don’t believe it!”

Puig became just the third player since 1900 with three homers in his first four career games, according to information provided to the dodgers by elias Sports Bureau.

Oh yeah, he homered again last Friday.

Puig’s ability to speak english is limited, and Mattingly was asked how he communicates with the rookie during games.

“I don’t have to communicate, just kind of go,” Mattingly said, smiling and putting his hands together in a clapping gesture.

Puig’s exploits last week drew four curtain calls. Actor and fellow Cuban Andy Garcia came to check him out. The dodgers rushed T-shirts and jerseys with his No. 66 into production and had them for sale late last week.

“I’m very happy because the fans are wearing my T-shirt and saying my name,” he said.

even if some of his teammates aren’t quite sure how to pronounce it.

Count Skip among them.

“There’s a different energy from the Cuban,” the second baseman said. “He’s just been amazing for us and it feels like something is going to happen every time he comes up.”

Puig’s five-tool skills have dazzled dodgers fans, who cheer for his speed, power and strong throwing arm. His at-bats are must-see baseball, no matter what the score of the game. He’s a free swinger, whether he’s putting the ball in play, fouling it off or taking a strike.

“He’s up there with an intent to do damage,” dodgers pitcher Ted Lilly said.

Schumaker