Dodgers designate Nick Green for assignment to make room for Scott Elbert

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It was Nick Green’s turn for his number to come up Friday, as the Dodgers designated him for assignment to make room for Scott Elbert on the 25-man roster.

Green, 31, came to camp as a nonroster invitee and started the season at triple-A Albuquerque. He hit .236 in 276 at-bats last season for the Red Sox.

If no one picks him up, he could return to Albuquerque if both he and the Dodgers are willing.

Elbert’s stay with the Dodgers, however, apparently will be brief. The left-hander could be headed back down when the Dodgers activate Charlie Haeger next week, assuming that his plantar fasciitis has healed.

For now, Elbert gives Manager Joe Torre a second left-hander in the bullpen to go with Hong-Chih Kuo. Makes sense in the short term.

Torre’s following pregame comments are via the team’s public-relations department and are not represented as exact quotes:

‘It’s nice to have a second left-hander in addition to Kuo out of the pen against the Rockies. With Kuo not being able to go back to back, we want a left-hander available to us every day. Elbert was getting better his last few outings. He’s had more success against lefties.

‘This is temporary. Haeger will be back with us soon. From all indications, he’s doing well. He might be ready Tuesday or Wednesday.’

-- Steve Dilbeck