Chad Billingsley becomes free agent after Dodgers pick up buyout

At one time Chad Billingsley looked like a potential ace. Now at age 30, he is potentially done as a Dodger.

As expected, the Dodgers on Friday declined his option for the 2015 season, picking up the $3-million buyout, the players’ union said.

An all-star in 2009, he signed a three-year deal for $35 million prior to the 2012 season, going 22-20 with a 3.89 ERA and a 1.39 WHIP during the span of the contract.

He tore an elbow ligament in July 2012 that he attempted to rehab, before finally having Tommy John surgery. Then after making only two starts last season, he was forced to have a second surgery in the same elbow for a torn tendon.

The former first-round pick could re-sign with the Dodgers if they wanted to offer him a much less significant contract than the $14 million he would have earned next season. He could even be invited back as a non-roster player, if they were both willing to gamble.

Billingsley has never pitched for any team but the Dodgers. In his eight seasons, the right-hander is 81-61 with a 3.65 ERA.

He made his debut with the Dodgers at age 21. Two years later he went 16-10 with a 3.14 ERA, his finest overall season.