Ted Lilly closer to returning, weighs in on Dodgers’ pursuit of Ryan Dempster

NEW YORK — Ted Lilly can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Sidelined since May 24, Lilly threw a 40-pitch bullpen session Friday at Citi Field before the Dodgers’ game against the New York Mets.

Lilly said he was throwing at “pretty close” to 100% intensity.

“I was letting it go pretty good,” he said.

Lilly thinks he will be ready to start a minor league rehabilitation assignment after another bullpen session and a simulated game.

While sidelined, Lilly has been talking to close friend and former teammate Ryan Dempster about the possibility of him joining the Dodgers.

The Dodgers have made an offer to the Chicago Cubs for Dempster. But even if the Cubs accept it, Dempster would have to approve the deal. As a player with 10 years of major league service time, including the last five with the same team, Dempster can block any trade.

Dempster and Lilly played together on the Cubs from 2007-10. Lilly was acquired by the Dodgers at the 2010 non-waiver trade deadline.

“Obviously, he’s a very good pitcher,” Lilly said. “He’s one of the best teammates I’ve ever had.”

ALSO:

Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw lives his life by the book

Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw, Phillies’ Cliff Lee go tit for tat

Matt Kemp’s two-run home run in the 12th inning lifts Dodgers, 5-3