That the Los Angeles Dodgers didn’t send Clayton Kershaw to the mound in their Cactus League opener wasn’t much of a surprise, but it became evident the decision was one that stemmed from a health issue.
Frustrated by his performance in live batting practice and a bullpen session this week, Kershaw was excused from participating in a workout at Camelback Ranch. He returned to camp on Friday but did not take part in any throwing.
When Kershaw will resume doing so is unclear. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said his ace was not suffering from another reoccurrence of back trouble that’s dogged him over the past three seasons but rather, “Just kind of arm kind of thing.”
Kershaw was even more vague when discussing his status. “This is a good time to take a few days. This is the time to do it, so that’s what I’m doing,” he said.
When asked about his level of concern, Kershaw responded, “I’m just taking a few days. I’m not going to be super specific right now. I should be playing catch here in the next few days. This is super early. Just want to make sure things are right.”
Although he appeared visibly frustrated, the 30-year-old is taking some comfort that there remains ample time for him to overcome the mysterious malaise. “That’s why we’re doing it,” he said of being temporarily shut down.
Kershaw called that decision a “group effort.” Adding, “This is important for timing-wise to do it now as opposed to later.”
In the meantime, he will continue with daily workouts and visits to the training room, and there already was progress as of Saturday morning. “In talking to him and seeing his disposition, he’s encouraged about how his body is responding,” Roberts said.
