It is becoming increasingly more likely that the Los Angeles Dodgers will not have Chad Billingsley make another start for them this season. The right-handed pitcher has been out 10 days with right elbow inflammation and still hasn't thrown a baseball, under doctor's orders.
"These last 10 days have been the most boring time that I've ever had, just doing treatment all the time. I want to be out there and pitch, but I can't try to pick up a ball. If my arm goes then I'm out for 10-12 months.," Billingsley said on Monday.
If Billingsley is cleared to start throwing soon, there may not be enough time left in the season for him to build back up his arm strength to be able to start. Which means a bullpen role could be in store for Billingsley, if he is able to return at all.
"The longer it goes, even if he starts throwing, the likelihood of seeing him again this season gets lower and lower," said manager Don Mattingly.
For now Billingsley waits, as he will meet with team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache later this week to determine whether or not a second injection of platelet-rich plasma is needed.
"The best thing for my elbow right now is getting rest. Getting the inflammation out. That's what they're doing with all the ice, and the treatment. Just letting it heal," Billingsley said. "I still want to be smart about it, but I also want to get back."
There are 26 games left in the regular season after Monday.
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