The Los Angeles Dodgers made it clear they would take a cautious approach with Clayton Kershaw after he was placed on the 10-day injured list because of left forearm inflammation and forecasted a likely return in August.
That was taking shape to be this weekend for the Freeway Series, but then Kershaw wasn’t able to throw in a scheduled simulated game before the series finale at Chase Field. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed Kershaw was experiencing soreness, though the team didn’t consider it a setback.
The left-hander is yet to get on track nearly a handful of days later, and along with Tony Gonsolin isn’t throwing at present time. “They’re just kind of in idle mode right now,” Roberts said.
“I think neither one is playing catch. We’ve got to get the pain to dissipate. When they pick up a baseball and start their progression, it’ll be news. But right now we’re just kind of holding.”
The Dodgers fortified their starting rotation at the trade deadline by acquiring Max Scherzer; Danny Duffy could potentially start as well, but may be more likely to fill a role out of the bullpen.
With Gonsolin and Kershaw facing some uncertainty, the Dodgers signed Cole Hamels for the remainder of the season. But like Duffy, he’s multiple weeks away from potentially being in position to contribute.
In the meantime, Roberts is hopeful Scherzer’s arrival will provide a boost. “I think what we have in place as far as ballplayers, culture, mindset, is where it needs to be,” he said.
“But when you add a player like Albert and his track record, a guy like Max and his track record, and the sole goal is to win a championship, it only enhances what we have.”
Dodgers remain confident in Gonsolin
After playing a key role last season but struggling in October, Gonsolin has yet to find any consistency this year. Gonsolin previously spent time on the IL because of right shoulder inflammation and it wasn’t until after his last start did he reveal it at times remains an issue.
Roberts initially was hopeful Gonsolin would make a quick return and noted his importance to the team. “Just knowing he’s a big part of what we’re trying to do this season, making sure if it’s just giving him a little rest to kind of reset,” Roberts said of the IL stint.
“I don’t think it’s a long-term thing. Just to get him to reset is most important, because we believe in him.”
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