Dodgers’ Chad Billingsley has a pain-free bullpen session

PHOENIX – Chad Billingsley said he didn’t experience any problems with his bruised finger during his Wednesday bullpen session and that he expects to pitch in a game on Saturday.

“Everything felt fine,” Billingsley said.

Billingsley didn’t throw any curveballs. The Dodgers were concerned that if his grip was compromised, he could alter his mechanics.

“It’s still a little sensitive,” Billingsley said. “I have feeling in my finger tip now. It’s progressing each day, so that’s good.”

Billingsley bruised the finger in a bunting drill last week. He was scratched from his scheduled start on Tuesday.

Like Billingsley, Hyun-Jin Ryu is scheduled to pitch in a game on Saturday.

Billingsley and Ryu will pitch in separate games, with Billingsley likely pitching in a minor-league or simulated game.

Billingsley remains on schedule to pitch in the Dodgers’ second game of the regular season. If he can’t make the April 2 start, Ryu would be in position to replace him.

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