Opening Day 2007 got off to a pretty familiar start for Brady Clark.

He got to Miller Park around 8 a.m., entered through the South Dock and walked past the assembling stadium staff on his way to the clubhouse. That's where the routine changed.

After three seasons with the Brewers, Clark was dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers for pitcher Elmer Dessens near the end of spring training. In an odd quirk of fate, the Dodgers opened the season against Clark's former team at Miller Park.

"It's just part of the game," Clark said before the game. "Things just work out that way sometimes."

Heading into camp, Clark was aware that he might not be coming back to Milwaukee. With seven candidates to fill three outfield spots -- not to mention a disappointing performance in 2006 -- the chance for a trade was pretty good.

"I knew something had to give and that I was maybe one of the pieces that could go," Clark said. "It was always there, but those things are out of your control. You just worry about the things you can do something about and whatever happens happens."

Clark's Los Angeles career got off to an auspicious start. In his first Dodgers at-bat, he lined into a triple play. On a full count, runners were going and Clark smacked the ball right to Angels' second baseman Howie Kendrick.

"I guess you've gotta be seen somehow," Clark said. "That was a little strange. I hit the ball real good, but I hit it right at somebody."

Clark, who is wearing No. 3 with the Dodgers, entered the game in the fifth inning and received a smattering of boos during his first at-bat.