Early on in the 2023 regular season, the Los Angeles Dodgers have dealt with a run of tough outings and a fair amount of bad luck, a much different look after years of consistent top-end results. But with a shot to log the 200th win of his big league career, Clayton Kershaw turned in a dominant performance against the New York Mets on Tuesday.
Entering with a career 2.17 ERA and 1.02 WHIP in 16 regular-season starts against the Mets, Kershaw on the mound was the Dodgers’ best bet to get out of a rut. However, against a talented and veteran Mets lineup, the lefty found himself in some early trouble after just one batter.
In a two-strike count, Mets designated hitter Brandon Nimmo lofted a fly ball to right field that Jayson Heyward misplayed for a three-base triple.
But Kershaw buckled down, striking out Starling Marte, Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso in order. The manner in which he punched out the side drew praise from injured starter Walker Buehler, who reminded fans there is little doubt over what type of pitcher Kershaw still is.
If anyone wonders what makes 22 the GOAT, go watch the first inning of tonight’s game.
— Walker Buehler (@buehlersdayoff) April 19, 2023
Kershaw would go on to have a vintage performance, collecting nine strikeouts over seven shutout innings, allowing just three hits. Tuesday’s start lowered his season ERA to 2.52 and provided a reeling Dodgers staff with the most dominant outing from a starter this year.
Buehler has been vocal in his tenure with the Dodgers, often being called the club’s ace, but he’s consistently deferred that title to Kershaw and said he wouldn’t be the lead man until the surefire Hall of Famer calls it a career.
What is plan for Walker Buehler in return from Tommy John?
Expectations for Buehler should be tempered when it comes to the 2023 season, mostly because the right-hander barely began throwing in early March. In addition to undergoing his second Tommy John surgery, he opted to have bone spurs removed from his right elbow.
There remains a possibility that he can return at the end of the year in some capacity, but with the Dodgers and their hesitancy with pitchers, Buehler most likely won’t see game action until the 2024 season.
Make sure to follow Dodger Blue on Instagram! It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
