Kuo to the bullpen, for now

The most interesting news of the day might be that Hong-Chih Kuo is currently not being looked at as a prime candidate for the rotation, according to Manager Joe Torre. Kuo pitched 1 2/3 innings during an intrasquad game, but the Dodgers will have him prepare for the season is if he were going to be a reliever, a role he has struggled with in the past. The revelation comes on a day when it was announced Jason Schmidt won't throw for a few more days because of arm fatigue in coming back from shoulder surgery. It's not being looked upon as a major setback, but Schmidt is being looked upon as surprise if he were to make it for opening day. Meanwhile, fifth starter candidate Esteban Loaiza was tagged for a two-run home run today and battling control issues and working on a new delivery pitching coach Rick Honeycutt recommend he try. Kuo could re-enter the competition for a starting job, and maybe that point will come sooner than later if trends with Schmidt and Loaiza continue.