The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated Clayton Kershaw from the injured list and optioned Mitch White ahead of Sunday’s series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Kershaw’s start at Chase Field marks his 2020 debut, which of course was initially expected to come on Opening Day. However, lower back soreness prevented Kershaw from starting a franchise-record ninth career season opener.
Although the 32-year-old described his latest back trouble as “defeating” because of the timing and it cropping up unexpectedly, it largely was considered mild in nature. Kershaw underwent an MRI, which was negative, and he immediately responded well to treatment.
That allowed for Kershaw to progress to throwing a bullpen session at Minute Maid Park last week, and another on Thursday as the team prepared to begin a four-game series with the Diamondbacks.
Both throwing sessions went well, which left the Dodgers to decide on activating their longtime ace Sunday or Monday. They ultimately settled on a start in the desert, both because of Kershaw being eager to return and by pushing back the rest of the rotation for an extra day of rest.
“Just knowing he’s going to make a start, his debut for ’20, I know he’s thrilled,” manager Dave Roberts said. “The players are excited for him. There’s just a different demeanor in the clubhouse on his pitch day.
“We’re happy for the Dodgers, but I think a tick more we’re just happy for Clayton because he’s worked so hard to get back.”
White awaits MLB debut
When the Dodgers recalled White on Saturday to add a fresh arm to their bullpen, it marked the first time in his career being added to the active Major League roster. However, White did not appear in Saturday’s win and therefore has yet to make his MLB debut.
The Dodgers selected the right-hander in the second round of the 2016 MLB Draft and added him to their 40-man roster last November. He’s a career 14-15 with a 3.97 ERA across five different Minor League levels.
White spent last season with Double-A Tulsa and Triple-A Oklahoma City, going a combined 4-6 with a 5.09 ERA.
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