Dodgers promote Patterson to start Game 2

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Dodgers named Red Patterson to start the second game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Twins. It will be his Major League debut.

Patterson, 26, was promoted from Triple-A Albuquerque to be the 26th man on the active roster, which is allowed for doubleheaders. A non-roster invitee to Spring Training, Patterson was added to the 40-man roster Thursday, with outfielder Nick Buss designated for assignment.

Patterson was 1-1 with a 4.15 ERA with Albuquerque, and he was promoted over Stephen Fife and Matt Magill, both of whom were already on the 40-man roster. Both also have Major League experience, but they have been struggling in the Albuquerque rotation.

The move was necessitated by Tuesday night's rainout and will eliminate the need for Zack Greinke -- Wednesday night's starter -- to start Sunday on short rest. Scheduled to pitch in the upcoming series in Miami are Josh Beckett on Friday, Paul Maholm on Saturday and Hyun-Jin Ryu on Sunday. Each would be starting on two extra days of rest.

Patterson will wear uniform No. 51.