Beckett has rib removed in surgery

PHOENIX -- Dodgers pitcher Josh Beckett underwent surgery Wednesday in Dallas to remove a rib that was pressing a nerve and causing numbness in his pitching hand.

Dr. Greg Pearl removed the right first rib, which was causing thoracic outlet syndrome. The club expects Beckett to be ready for Spring Training next year.

Rehabbing pitcher Ted Lilly pitched a simulated game at Camelback Ranch as he attempts a conversion to the bullpen. He has another simulated game scheduled in Los Angeles this weekend.