Chad Billingsley was placed on the disabled list by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, but thanks to the timing of the All-Star break the hurler is expected to miss just one start. Billingsley had two MRI exams this week that showed elbow inflammation but nothing more, and that the elbow soreness is essentially the same that he usually experiences.
The plan is for Billingsley to throw a bullpen session on Friday, then start on Monday in St. Louis as the Dodgers open a four-game series against the Cardinals. Billingsley, who last pitched on July 7, has lost his last five starts with a 6.21 ERA during that span.
Stephen Fife was recalled from Triple A Albuquerque to start Tuesday night against the Philadelphia Phillies, making his major league debut.
"He's more of a control type, sinker ball guy," manager Don Mattingly said of Fife. "He'll rely hopefully on keeping the ball down and having movement."
Meanwhile, Javy Guerra is still in Mexico with his father, though the reliever could be activated from the bereavement list as early as Wednesday. Fife is expected to be optioned back to Triple A when Guerra returns, giving the Dodgers eight relievers through their weekend series in New York against the Mets.
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