After successfully completing a 60-pitch bullpen session on Friday, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw was back throwing at Dodger Stadium prior to Saturday’s game against the Chicago Cubs.
Shortly after Kershaw finished throwing, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said his ace will throw a simulated game on Tuesday. A decision on where that will be held has not yet been made. The Dodgers begin a three-game series in Colorado on Monday.
Kershaw’s simulated game could come at Dodger Stadium, with Minor Leaguers brought in, or the club could send him to Camelback Ranch.
Kershaw’s recovery has progressed without issue since suffering a setback in mid-July when back pain arose after a simulated game. He’s steadily increased the level of intensity in recent throwing sessions.
Over the past few weeks the Dodgers and have Kershaw have maintained targeted a return in September, while keeping other details of his recovery under wraps.
Despite being without their ace since late June, the Dodgers have surged to the top of the National League West standings. Their efforts have been aided by the San Francisco Giants hitting a historically-bad stretch out of the All-Star break.
Assuming Kershaw comes out of the simulated game scot-free, it will put him one step closer to being reinstated from the 60-day disabled list. He suspected one rehab start would be required prior to being activated, though a simulated game may suffice.
