Dodgers Injury Update: Still No Timetable for Clayton Kershaw

The Dodgers have had to place 23 players on the disabled list this season, but none have affected the team more than the absence of Clayton Kershaw. The MVP was having a record season before suffering a back injury, accumulating a 1.79 ERA with 11 wins and 2 losses. Even though Kershaw has missed a month of the season, he still somehow leads the National League in WAR.

The biggest concern this past week has been Kershaw’s timetable, being that his rehab program was shut down after a 60 pitch simulated game. Him and the team have been very quiet about this, however, on Tuesday Kershaw finally spoke with reporters and let them know that he is still waiting to get the green light to begin throwing again.

#Dodgers Clayton Kershaw was re-examined by Dr. Robert Watkins last week but still has not been cleared to start a throwing program.

— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) July 26, 2016

#Dodgers LHP Clayton Kershaw wouldn't directly answer question about whether he had any fears/concerns he won't pitch again this season.

— Mike DiGiovanna (@MikeDiGiovanna) July 26, 2016

The only bright side to this “no news is good news” situation is that Kershaw’s spirit has not diminished one bit! He is not only eager to return to his team, but proud of what the Dodgers have been able to accomplish during his DL stint.

"All I can say is I'm doing everything to try to get back, and I'm trusting the trainers and coaches to get me there." – Clayton Kershaw

— Dodger Insider (@DodgerInsider) July 26, 2016

Clayton Kershaw says he hates being out but loves how the team has done in his absence. pic.twitter.com/jUaJBdwh24

— Dodger Insider (@DodgerInsider) July 26, 2016

Watch everything Kershaw had to say about his progress and timetable below!

.@ClaytonKersh22: "I'm doing everything I possibly can to get back."https://t.co/e9AJHwLjCK

— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) July 27, 2016

The team’s number one concern at the moment is acquiring starting pitching, largely due to Clayton Kershaw being on the disabled list. Prospects such as Julio Urias, Jose De Leon, Cody Bellinger, and others have been brought up in discussion regarding trade bait for pitchers like Chris Sale and Chris Archer. Hopefully Kershaw can begin his road to recovery soon so that the front office isn’t forced to give up half of their top prospects. Get well soon, MVP!