Dodgers News: Clayton Kershaw’s Return Date Becomes More Clear
The Dodgers are hoping that Clayton Kershaw will be ready to go when the playoffs roll around. They don’t necessarily need him for the regular season run, especially with their lead in the National League West over the Padres. But the playoff implications of him being out are tough to ignore.
If he’s healthy, Kershaw automatically plugs in as one of the top 2 starters for the Dodgers in any series. His presence also allows Dave Roberts to push some guys to the bullpen and gives them length when it matters the most. But if he’s out, things change up a lot.
The Dodgers would need to rely on a handful of guys that have not had extensive experience in the postseason. Tony Gonsolin, Dustin May, and Tyler Anderson would all be guys that they would have to rely on.
But there is very good news on Kershaw this week. The Dodgers southpaw threw a 30-pitch bullpen session on Friday for the first time since he hit the injured list on August 5th. His back has since been free of pain, keeping the hope alive that he can return in September.
“It’s right on par with what we were hoping for initially. You’re looking at another [batting practice], a simulated game, then an activation.” -Dave Roberts
#Dodgers head trainer Thomas Albert "couldn't be happier" with how Clayton Kershaw came out of his bullpen session yesterday, per Roberts. Kershaw's arm felt great, while there was just "normal" soreness in his back.
— Sarah Wexler (@SarahWexler32) August 20, 2022
The Dodgers are unsure at this point if they will send Kersh on a rehab stint when he is ready to go. But the fact that he was able to get through a 30-pitch bullpen session is incredibly encouraging. They need him back and ready to roll in October, and that’s a great ifrst step.
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Hire CK a personal masseur, make him lie flat on a hard surface between innings, have him wear a custom back brace. Seems like something could be done. As it is he pitches a few games and the back goes out now, every time. If he starts pitching again now, he’ll be gone again by playoff time.
Don’t rush him. We need him for the playoffs and World Series.