Dodgers relieved Billingsley only has tendinitis

SAN FRANCISCO -- Dodgers pitcher Chad Billingsley, currently on the disabled list, has tendinitis in his right elbow, but no further ligament damage, an MRI revealed Wednesday.

The news was considered by the club as a positive for Billingsley, who is returning from Tommy John reconstruction performed a year ago.

Billingsley felt a popping sensation 10 days ago in a Minor League rehab assignment. After letting the discomfort dissipate, he resumed throwing off a mound Tuesday but cut short the bullpen session after eight pitches because of elbow tightness.

"We're going to slow him down a little bit, but it's good news," manager Don Mattingly said.

There is no timetable on when Billingsley will resume throwing off a mound.