Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw was in the midst of another remarkable season that’s temporarily been put on hold as he was placed on the disabled list for only the second time in his career.
After an uncharacteristic start against the Pittsburgh Pirates in which he gave up four runs on nine hits, Kershaw received treatment and an epidural injection for back pain and was later diagnosed with a mild disc herniation.
Had he been available to appear in the 2016 All-Star Game, New York Mets manager Terry Collins said he intended to start Kershaw, which would have been a first for three-time Cy Young Award winner.
Despite not participating in the game, Kershaw still enjoyed the event, and even embraced the boos of the San Diego Padres’ fans during introductions. He was also very much part of the discussion at Petco Park.
More specifically, Texas Rangers lefty Cole Hamels marveled at Kershaw’s success and his career, via Alden Gonzalez of MLB.com:
“He’s, like, inhuman,” Rangers ace and fellow lefty Cole Hamels said. “He’s the definition of almost a robot.”
In part related to his burning desire to return to action as soon as possible, Kershaw has unsurprisingly progressed well in his recovery and is nearing a return to the mound. In 16 starts this season, he’s 11-2 with a 1.79 ERA, 0.73 WHIP and 145 strikeouts.
Beyond what Hamels said about Kershaw, the All-Star Game festivities saw other players share praise and admiration for their competitors around the league.
For instance, Brandon Belt of the San Francisco Giants said the Dodgers are still capable of winning the National League West title this season, while Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy lauded rookie shortstop Corey Seager.
