Los Angeles Dodgers Clayton Kershaw: DL Bound
By Brad Kelly
Clayton Kershaw has once again been dominate this season for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but what is the fantasy fallout now that he is headed to the DL?
What more can be said about Clayton Kershaw? The lefty is a generational talent that seemingly cannot be stopped. As if it were even possible to do, Kershaw has improved once again this season, posting an absurd 145 K/9 BB ratio.
The Dodgers have gone through so many starters that Sandy Koufax might have to make a spot start here soon. Injuries have completely ravaged their roatation, and now with Kershaw gone, things look even more bleak. They did make a deal for Bud Norris today, whom has been surprisingly good this season for the Braves, so Norris will more than likely fill in for Kershaw until he returns.
Kershaw’s lower back strain may not seem like a major issue, but it did warrant the issuing of an epidural shot. While he may be able to rebound quickly and only miss 15 days, there is a legitimate worry that he could miss an extended period of time.
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Just as is the case for the Dodgers, losing Clayton Kershaw is a back breaker for fantasy owners. He continues to show why he is a first round value, so it is safe to say that there is no one on the waiver wire that comes close to matching his production. But, owners will have to try to make things work till he returns.
With the insane splits that Kershaw offers, the weekly advantage he brings is unmatched. But, pitchers like Matt Shoemaker or Robbie Ray, can offer decent K totals that would allow owners not to suffer too big of a drop-off. For those in deeper leagues, guys like Daniel Mengden or Junior Guerra, could be potential upside replacements as well thanks to their recent success.
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Losing Clayton Kershaw sucks for everyone, but that’s baseball for you. Owners will have to adapt and find options off the waiver wire that can lessen the production blow in the meantime. The only good thing is that at least there are plenty of SP out there, so hopefully some of the mentioned options above can help.