Even Green Awed by Beltre

NEW YORK â€”  Shawn Green holds the Dodger single-season record for home runs with 49, has hit at least 40 homers three times and has had several teammates who accomplished the feat.

But Green said he’s in awe of Adrian Beltre’s production in the third baseman’s 42-homer season.

“The stuff Belly has done this year, I’ve never seen anything like it,� Green said. “When we’ve needed a big home run, at any point in the game, he has been virtually automatic all year.

“Whether it’s eighth- and ninth-inning home runs to tie the score or take the lead, or a three-run homer early to get us back in the game when we’re down five or six runs, Belly has come through....

“I’ve been on a lot of teams where guys have hit 40-plus home runs, and nothing compares to this.�

If Beltre maintains his pace and the Dodgers win the National League West, Green said Beltre should be selected the NL most valuable player.

“This team wouldn’t be in first place without Belly,� Green said. “There are a lot of guys having great years, but Belly is the biggest reason the offense is doing what it’s doing this year.�

Barry Bonds, a six-time NL MVP, has played the biggest part in helping the San Francisco Giants remain in playoff contention despite their numerous deficiencies.

“It all depends on how you evaluate the MVP,� Green said. “ ... If helping a team win its division is the main thing you’re looking at, and we win the division, then Belly definitely should get a lot of votes.�

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Pitcher Brad Penny, who has a nerve problem in his pitching arm, resumed his throwing program after resting Saturday, tossing 50 times from about 115 feet.

“It was an improved effort,� physical therapist Pat Screnar said. “He felt better, and there was less tightness. It was probably his best day so far.�

The Dodgers said Penny probably is still weeks away from being activated from the disabled list.

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Wilson Alvarez’s pitching elbow was still swollen two days after taking a one-hopper off it Friday in a 9-2 loss to the Mets.... Right-hander Edwin Jackson is scheduled to make his third rehabilitation start Tuesday for triple-A Las Vegas.