Dodgers News: LA Not Considering Shutting Down Clayton Kershaw, Says Dave Roberts
The last thing the Dodgers need right now is another injury to one of their starting pitchers. They can’t afford to lose another member of the rotation, especially with the playoffs coming down the line soon.
Left-handed pitcher Clayton Kershaw has been one of the more stable pitchers for this team all season, but something is off with him. It seems that the shoulder injury that forced him to miss time earlier this season isn’t fully healed, and it is slightly compromising his performance.
Against the Miami Marlins on Tuesday, you could see that Kershaw was struggling a bit with the shoulder. He went five innings, allowing three runs to Miami in the game. It wasn’t the worst outing for the veteran, but something felt different. His velocity was down, and he just couldn’t locate his pitches.
Manager Dave Roberts spoke about it after the game but clarified that the team isn’t considering shutting down Kershaw at this time.
“He’s going to keep going. He’s going to keep going until he can’t,” Roberts said. “If he is able to take the baseball, he’s going to take the baseball. This has nothing to do with where the rotation’s at, who’s available, who’s not. It’s about Clayton taking the baseball for us and us managing each game he throws.”
Per The OC Register
In all honesty, the Dodgers really can’t afford to lose Kershaw right now. But it also couldn’t hurt to allow him to rest for a short period of time. They are going to need him come playoff time, and if he isn’t healthy then this team will be in trouble.
“I think so. I think it’s just that last bit of finish on whether it be the slider, the curveball that might not be as sharp,” Roberts said regarding if the injury is affecting him. “The slider that might not get the depth that we’re used to or the fastball commanding that last bit. I think that’s part of it. It’s one of those things where – this is where we’re at. Obviously, it’s not ideal for him. But we’re going to make the most of it.”
Per The OC Register
Kershaw has been great this season, posting an ERA of 2.61 over 21 starts. He has been consistent for this team when on the mound, so his injury is a bit concerning.
He said that he was fine after the game, but the results showed a different reality.
“I feel fine. I feel fine. That’s not the problem. I feel fine,” he said to one direct question about the condition of his shoulder.
Per The OC Register
Luckily for LA, Walker Buehler could be coming back soon. But that still doesn’t diminish the value that Kershaw brings to this team. They need their long-time ace, so this will certainly be something to watch play out.
Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
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