Billingsley returning to Dodgers rotation next week
Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Chad Billingsley is set to join the rotation on Wednesday against the San Diego Padres, MLB.com reported Saturday.
Billingsley had no problems with his bruised right index finger during a minor league rehab start Thursday.
Billingsley tossed four innings in a Class A Rancho Cucamonga game. He allowed four runs, six hits and three walks. He also struck out two and hit a batter.
"It went well," he said. "I accomplished everything I needed to to get ready for my next start. I've got no issues with the finger. I'm anxious to get back out there, compete and win some ballgames."
Billingsley was 10-9 with a 3.55 ERA and 128/45 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 149 2/3 innings over 25 starts in 2012 until an elbow injury cost him the rest of the season.
Also, left-hander Ted Lilly allowed nine hits, including three home runs, in six innings during a rehab start for Rancho Cucamonga on Friday. He is recovering from left shoulder surgery.
Former starters Chris Capuano and Aaron Harang are in the Dodgers' bullpen for now, but could return to the rotation if Billingsley or Lilly have problems.
