Even as time ticks away there remains optimism that Clayton Kershaw will return despite the limitations that are still in place. Kershaw quickly advanced through his recovery to throw a simulated game July 16.
However, that in turn has been a setback as opposed to an important hurdle cleared. “Kershaw is still doing the back stabilization,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on Friday. “(He) hasn’t picked up a baseball and hasn’t been doing baseball activities.”
The rookie manager’s latest comments are essentially a carbon copy of what’s held true for Kershaw over multiple weeks now.
He was transferred to the 60-day disabled list this week, which makes Aug. 27 the earliest date he can return.
That of course is unlikely given where the three-time Cy Young Award winner is with his recovery. “Again, we’re still optimistic that he’ll be back in September, but we don’t have a date,” Roberts added.
“As I understand, there’s a progression and list of stages. Right now, he’s just trying to ascend and get to the marks they expect. At that point in time, he’ll start baseball activities. To my knowledge, I’m not certain when that will be.”
Los Angeles is 20-13 Since Kershaw’s last start on June 26. However, their rotation remains a significant question mark with Bud Norris now on the disabled list and Rich Hill battling a new blister issue.
Brett Anderson is scheduled to make another rehab start on Monday and could be reinstated from the disabled list after that. Along with Kershaw, the Dodgers are hopeful to see the return of Alex Wood in September.
