Clayton Kershaw’s second attempt at a comeback from a mild disc herniation has been a slow, but steady process. He was shut down following a simulated game in July due to back pain resurfacing.
For multiple weeks, Kershaw was limited to core and back strengthening exercises. He was cleared to begin throwing on flat ground, then advanced to multiple bullpen sessions.
After getting through a 60-pitch bullpen session, which included the simulation of sitting between innings, Kershaw felt prepared to take the next step in his recovery.
He was particularly encouraged by being able to sit and get back up to throw, as it caused pain the first time around.
On Tuesday the Dodgers’ left-handed ace faced hitters from High-A Rancho Cucamonga in a simulated game.
According to Ken Gurnick of MLB.com, that lasted two innings and Kershaw needs to continuing stretching out:
Kershaw two innings sim game, Roberts said.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) August 30, 2016
Kershaw needs to build up more innings before returning to rotation, Robets said.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) August 30, 2016
Although Dodgers manager Dave Roberts left open the possibility of Kershaw next pitching in a Major League game, president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said a rehab start is in order:
Friedman said next step for Kershaw would be a Minor League game
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) August 30, 2016
Kershaw previously conceded he’d likely need to go out on a rehab assignment prior to rejoining the Dodgers’ rotation. The club envisioned him possibly making multiple rehab starts, but Kershaw negotiated that number down to one.
He last pitched June 26, suffering a loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. He was put on the 15-day disabled list that week, and transferred to the 60-day DL on Aug. 3. Kershaw became eligible to be activated from the disabled list on Aug. 27.
