Takashi Saito is optimistic about returning this season
DODGERS FYI
Closer says there's no pain in his right elbow, in which he suffered a sprained ligament that forced him to go on the disabled list in July.
A week of light tossing behind him, Takashi Saito said he is more optimistic about being able to pitch again this season for the Dodgers than when he was put on the disabled list July 18 because of a sprained ligament in his right elbow.
"There's no pain so I'm feeling better about my chances," Saito said. "But the reality is that I hurt my elbow."
Saito, who could still be forced to undergo season-ending surgery, will continue his current regimen of tossing for two days and resting for one over the next two weeks while gradually increasing the intensity.
After two weeks, he will be examined by Dr. Neal El Attrache, who will determine whether he can pitch off a mound.
"I don't want to come back too late, but I also don't want to hold back when I can go," Saito said. "It's tough to balance."
Saito said he's doing everything but throwing hard.
"I'm working out like crazy so I'll be in shape to return to the mound at any time," he said.
Moving on up
The Dodgers' 4-3 win over Philadelphia on Tuesday was the 2,127th victory of Joe Torre's managerial career, moving him into seventh all-time. Torre moved past Joe McCarthy, who managed the New York Yankees to seven championships in 16 seasons.
"That gets your attention," Torre said. "I don't get in the habit of looking back and admiring what took place because I'd like to think I'll do this for a little bit longer. . . . But it's pretty cool."
More Manny
The Manny Ramirez-style dreadlock wigs that went on sale in team stores for $25 on Wednesday were a big hit in the Dodgers' clubhouse.
Tom Catlin, vice president of creative services, brought a couple of the wigs into the clubhouse that were worn by several players, among them Hiroki Kuroda, Angel Berroa and Delwyn Young.
Reliever claimed by Padres
Right-hander Brian Falkenborg was lost to the San Diego Padres, who claimed him off waivers. Falkenborg, 30, who was in his second stint with the Dodgers, was designated for assignment last week to make room on the active roster for Brad Penny.
Falkenborg started the season as the closer for triple-A Las Vegas. He was called up June 25 and posted a 2-2 record and 6.17 earned-run average in 16 big league games.
Surgery for Bennett?
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