Recovering Billingsley feels good in latest BP session

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Chad Billingsley finished off a bullpen session on Wednesday with two pitches in clear violation of the trainer-imposed 85-mph speed limit.

Billingsley wouldn't confirm a camp whisper number of 91 mph, but he smiled when asked how he came out of it.

"My arm feels better than it did a week ago when I started throwing breaking balls," said Billingsley. "I think throwing harder has helped me get extension and loosened up the flexor muscles."

Billingsley had Tommy John surgery last year on April 25, and he appears to be on track for a May return. He expects to throw several more bullpen sessions before graduating to face live hitters, then game action.

In other Tommy John surgery news, prospect Ross Stripling returned to camp after having an arthroscopic procedure on his right elbow in preparation for Tommy John reconstruction, which will take place after the swelling subsides, probably in two weeks.