Maddux Is Set to Start on Thursday

The Dodgers announced that Greg Maddux would start Thursday in the series finale against the Cincinnati Reds, bumping rookie Chad Billingsley to Saturday.

Professionally, Billingsley understands. Personally, he’s disappointed.

The change will rob the rookie right-hander of his first chance to pitch with his parents in the stands.

Billingsley’s father, James, has battled cancer and the effects of a stroke for years and has been unable to travel to L.A. He watched his son during spring training, but hasn’t seen him pitch since.

Manager Grady Little did not know that Billingsley’s parents had driven from their home in Defiance, Ohio, to watch the series when he juggled the rotation to accommodate Maddux.

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Part of the rationale in acquiring Maddux was that he could share his expertise with young pitchers such as Billingsley and Jonathan Broxton.

Maddux, however, isn’t comfortable with becoming a mentor.

“I’m going to pitch every five days and enjoy my time at the ballpark the other four,” he said. “It’s hard to walk in and start giving advice. That wouldn’t be the right thing to do.

“I didn’t come over here to coach, I’m here to play. But I’m all for helping teammates, and I hope they help me too.”

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The Dodgers designated Jose Cruz Jr. for assignment to make room for Maddux, meaning they have 10 days to trade or release the veteran outfielder. Cruz batted .233 with five home runs in 223 at-bats and played all three outfield positions.

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Pitcher Kengshill Pujols of the rookie Gulf Coast League Dodgers was suspended for 50 games by Major League Baseball for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.