Dodgers could start Chris Capuano on short rest Sunday

SAN DIEGO -- The Dodgers might start pitcher Chris Capuano on short rest Sunday, Manager Don Mattingly said.

Mattingly said Capauno volunteered for the assignment, which would allow the Dodgers to avoid calling up Matt Magill or Matt Palmer from the minor leagues for a spot start.

Capuano, 34, made 84 pitches in his last start -- his first since coming off the disabled list for the second time this season. Capuano has missed a total of five weeks this season, first because of a strained calf and then because of a strained left shoulder.

The left-hander last started on three days’ rest in 2005, not counting two starts when his previous appearance came in relief. He missed all of the 2008 and 2009 seasons after ligament replacement surgery on his left elbow.

Mattingly said he would discuss the possibility with General Manager Ned Colletti. However, Mattingly said pitching coach Rick Honeycutt was more comfortable with the idea than he was.

“Rick didn’t seem to be as concerned,” Mattingly said. “Cappy didn’t seem to be as concerned. We’ll kick it around.”