Vicente Padilla returns to Los Angeles for MRI exam

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Uh-oh.

Only a week removed from the day their pitchers and catchers worked out for the first time, the Dodgers sent Vicente Padilla back to Los Angeles so he could undergo an MRI exam on his right elbow.

The Dodgers’ opening-day starter last season, Padilla was re-signed to add depth to the pitching staff. He was expected to start the season as a swingman and was thought of as someone who could step into the rotation or closer’s role if needed.

The pain Padilla is experiencing is similar to the pain he felt when he missed nearly two months with nerve problems in his arm early last season, according to a club spokesman.

Padilla was examined by Dr. Neal ElAttrache on Monday. Results of the MRI exam are expected to be known by Wednesday.

-- Dylan Hernandez in Phoenix