Dodgers News: Billingsley Opts For Surgery To Repair Flexor Tendon

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Chad Billingsley’s prospects of pitching in 2014 have gone from a potential return in May to enduring multiple setbacks and now the right-hander will miss another season.

Billingsley’s latest setback and MRI revealed a healthy UCL in his right elbow, but a torn flexor tendon. The right-hander was scheduled to meet with Dr. Neal ElAttrache and mull over his options.

After some days of deliberation, Billingsley has elected for another surgery, reports J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News Group:

Surgery will be next week to reattach flexor tendon. 3 months until he can throw.

— J.P. Hoornstra (@jphoornstra) June 16, 2014

The surgery ends another season for Billingsley, who will now have missed 2013 and 2014, who had this to say about his unfortunate luck:

"I guess the season's down the drain again," Billingsley said, "but it happens."

— J.P. Hoornstra (@jphoornstra) June 16, 2014

Considering Billingsley will not take the mound this season, it likely ends his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers hold a team option on Billingsley’s contract next season for $14 million. Should they choose not to exercise it, they will need to pay a $3 million buyout.

As he worked his way through bullpen sessions and simulated games, Billingsley said he intended to return as a starting pitcher. Should this mark the end of his tenure with the Dodgers, Billingsley finishes 81-61 with a 3.65 ERA for the team that drafted him No. 24 in the 2003 draft.
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