Clayton Kershaw was in cruise control against the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday when he asked to come out of the start after throwing just 79 pitches over six scoreless innings.
The left-hander declined to provide specifics of what ailed him following the Dodgers’ 5-0 win, telling reporters he simply didn’t feel healthy and thought being removed at that point was the best decision.
Kershaw has since revealed his injury to be left shoulder inflammation that was treated with a cortisone injection. The 35-year-old is optimistic the shot will be a successful remedy as it previously worked for him in the past.
Kershaw still has his sights on making his final two starts before the All-Star break, via SportsNet LA:
“I’m somewhat optimistic that I should be good. I’m hopeful to not miss a start. Obviously, with the All-Star break coming up and stuff, we have some time to potentially shift things around. We’ll see, but as of now, I’m kind of on the same day-to-day basis. Probably start picking up a ball at some point in Kansas City and see how it does. If it feels good, hopefully make my next one.”
Whether Kershaw is able to avoid a stint on the 15-day injured list will depend on how he feels after playing catch during the Dodgers’ series against the Kansas City Royals this weekend:
“It’s like two to three. [Friday] will be the day to at least move it around a little bit. I don’t know if I’m going to throw or not [Friday]. I’ll see how I feel, but potentially [Friday], I’ll play catch.”
Kershaw has dealt with shoulder trouble on several occasions throughout his career, including in 2014, when he landed on the IL because of a left shoulder strain. However, that was more an injury of the teres major muscle that is located in the upper back area.
Kershaw also missed his scheduled Opening Day start in 2019 due to left shoulder inflammation. His stint on the IL was brief as the Dodgers activated him just over two weeks later.
Kershaw is currently lined up to start Monday in the series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates, and again on July 8 against the Los Angeles Angels in the team’s final game before the All-Star break.
Clayton Kershaw could miss All-Star Game
If Kershaw makes his start against the Angels in the Freeway Series finale, he would be ruled out from pitching in the 2023 MLB All-Star Game.
The three-time Cy Young Award hasn’t officially earned his ninth career All-Star selection, but figures to do so when full rosters are announced on Sunday.
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