Clayton Kershaw may not be the same pitcher that he once was, but he is still a capable starter and an arm that the Los Angeles Dodgers desperately need as they head into the playoffs.
After missing most of the season due to shoulder surgery, Kershaw finally took the mound at the end of July. It would be short-lived as he was put on the injured list on August 31st due to a bone spur in his big left toe.
Now, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, and per an ESPN report, Kershaw is in a “holding pattern.”
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Latest Clayton Kershaw Injury Update Is Not Great
“I don’t think there’s been improvement. Him not facing hitters this week is pretty telling in itself…there’s something that’s holding him up from progressing to face hitters. Hopefully in the next few days, we’ll get a little more clarity on how he’s feeling.”
Dave Roberts on Tuesday
Before being put back on the injured list, Kershaw was 2-2 with a 4.50 ERA in seven starts. He signed a one-year contract before the 2024 season with a 2025 player option that can turn into $15 million if he is healthy, and based on criteria involving starts and relief innings.
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The Dodgers have clinched a berth in the playoffs, but have not yet clinched the NL West. They are clinging to a two-game lead over the San Diego Padres with two games remaining in their series with the Padres, and the final three games against the division-worst Colorado Rockies.
Having a vet like Kershaw available in the playoffs would give the team a huge boost.
We will keep you updated as this story develops.