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Anderson nearing next start for D-backs

Righty throws simulated game, could replace De La Rosa vs. Dodgers

SAN FRANCISCO -- Chase Anderson threw a simulated game at AT&T Park on Friday afternoon prior to batting practice as he gets set to rejoin the D-backs' rotation.

Anderson last started Sept. 10 and he was roughed up for five runs over two innings against the Giants. The right-hander was the team's most consistent starter early in the season, but prior to the All-Star break, he began to struggle.

Anderson was sent down to Triple-A Reno to work on some things, but the demotion lasted only one day due to an injury to Jeremy Hellickson.

After his last start, the D-backs had him skip a turn in the rotation so he could work on the side with pitching coach Mike Harkey. The work appears to have paid off.

"Chase looked good," D-backs manager Chip Hale said. "He got better and better."

Anderson will likely start during the upcoming series with the Dodgers in Los Angeles. He could take the spot of Rubby De La Rosa, who has struggled mightily against the Dodgers this year and the D-backs do not want him to face them again.

Steve Gilbert is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Inside the D-backs, and follow him on Twitter @SteveGilbertMLB.
Read More: Arizona Diamondbacks, Chase Anderson