Jarrod

Washburn

Anaheim has four off days in the month, and as such, will not require a fifth starter. It looks as if Ramon Ortiz, who allowed six runs in six innings last night, and Aaron Sele, will be pitching out of the bullpen for most of September.

Washburn could rejoin the Angel rotation later next week.

With the Angels clinching the west yesterday, Washburn will rest and start game three of the ALDS. Aaron Sele will take the left-hander’s spot in the rotation today.

Bartolo Colon, Kelvim Escobar and John Lackey are the locks for spots in next year’s rotation. If the Angels add Pedro Martinez or Carl Pavano, they could trade Washburn for payroll purposes. If they sign a lesser starter, they might be able to afford keeping Washburn around.

Neither Aaron Sele nor Ramon Ortiz figures to have a spot on the postseason roster. Lackey probably will get the call in Game 4 even though he’s 0-4 with a 6.89 ERA in six career starts against Boston.

“Now, it’s a matter of rebuilding strength and stamina and hoping for no setbacks,” said Washburn. He’s currently on a regimen of throwing every other day, and could begin a rehab assignment next week.

Relievers Scot Shields or Scott Schoeneweis or minor leaguer Chris Bootcheck are the candidates to face the Red Sox.

Washburn, who starts tonight, agreed with the scout’s assessment... prior to his last three outings where he’s 2-1 with a 2.35 ERA. Washburn says he’s now up to 90 mph and has recovered the command he lost while recovering from the shoulder sprain he suffered in spring training.

The Angels might not have Washburn ready for Opening Day, but he could start the season at the back of the rotation. ''If it’s not opening day, it will be soon thereafter,’' pitching coach Bud Black said, ''and he’ll still get his 33 starts.’'

This is rather unexpected. If Washburn throws well today, then he’ll have a real chance of starting on Opening Day.