There was a time in July when Clayton Kershaw and the Los Angeles Dodgers weren’t certain if a return this season was in the cards. Neither party publicly admitted as much throughout Kershaw’s recovery from a mild disc herniation, but the left-handed ace later conceded doubt crept into his mind.
Kershaw quickly suppressed that and focused on navigating a steady path to pitching again, after an aggressive approach led to a setback. Kershaw said he went into the 2016 postseason not feeling as much pressure to carry the Dodgers as he did year’s prior.
His start against the Washington Nationals in Game 1 of the National League Division Series was far from a rousing success. But Kershaw protected the Dodgers’ lead while laboring through five innings.
As has been the case since he came off the 60-day disabled list, questions have surrounded Kershaw’s health after each start. And once again, he’s moving forward without issue.
“He came in [Saturday], did his normal post-start workout, and really, in talking to him, the training staff, the back’s not an issue,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. Kershaw’s next start may not come until a potential Game 5 of the NLDS.
With Game 2 postponed to Sunday, Roberts said it effectively cemented Julio Urias as the club’s starter for a potential Game 4. But after falling behind in the series, 2-1, Roberts said the Dodgers were discussing their options.
Namely, will Kershaw take the mound on short rest, or will the Dodgers hand the ball to Urias. If they elect Kershaw, it would push Urias to start a potential Game 5 on the road. Rich Hill does not appear to be under consideration to possibly start Thursday on short rest.
