Brandon

Duckworth

Duckworth is on the DL with forearm tendinitis. His original return was estimated at mid-April, but could be accelerated since he has reportedly been throwing very well.

Duckworth will force Joe Roa out of the rotation when he returns.

Duckworth is scheduled to come off the DL and start Sunday against the Braves.

''I could see that happening. I’m not saying it’s going to happen. We’ll just have to see how he does,’' said Bowa. Duckworth threw 75 pitches over 4 2/3 innings Friday. He allowed one run, two hits, struck out six and walked one. The Phillies might like to see him go further in a game before bringing him back. Tuesday’s starting pitcher is still a question mark. It’s Joe Roa’s turn, but his poor performance has Bowa looking for another option. If that option isn’t Duckworth, it could be Eric Junge.

Duckworth is expected to return to game action on Wednesday. The right-hander will open the year on the disabled list and miss one or two starts, opening up a rotation spot for Joe Roa and a bullpen spot for either Jim Crowell and Amaury Telemaco.

''I just aired it out today. I finally let it go,’' said Duckworth, coming off the worst start of his career. It’s good to know his stuff was moving and humming, but the Giants, whom he faces Saturday, can hurt a pitcher in a hurry. Proceed with guarded optimism.

The Phillies are optimistic that they’ll be able to get Duckworth three more starts before the end of camp.

They’ll join fellow righties Octavio Dotel, Brad Lidge and Dan Miceli in the pen. That leaves two spots for Dave Veres, Jeriome Robertson, Mike Gallo, Jared Fernandez and Brandon Backe.

Brandon Duckworth appears to be the clear favorite for the role, although he’d likely only throw 80 pitches.

Duckworth is scheduled to start Friday in Baltimore.