Injured Clayton Kershaw ahead of schedule
Los Angeles Dodgers’ ace Clayton Kershaw ahead of schedule, cleared to play catch.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ pitcher Clayton Kershaw was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a mildly herniated disc in his lower back on June 30 after meeting with team doctors. Luckily for the Dodgers, Kershaw’s injury will not require surgery, but upon first diagnoses, the team was very unsure of the impending recovery time.
Fearing the worst, Los Angeles acquired starting pitcher Bud Norris from the Atlanta Braves to strengthen its weakened rotation. However, just six days after announcing Kershaw’s move to the DL, the Dodgers received news that they may get their workhorse back sooner than expected ,according to Andy McCullough of the L.A. Times.
You won't believe this, but Clayton Kershaw has been cleared to play catch ahead of schedule. "We're pleasantly surprised," Roberts said.
— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) July 6, 2016
Prior to this setback, Kershaw was performing at peak levels with a 1.79 ERA, 0.73 WHIP and a 11-2 record. For his tremendous performance this season, the 2014 National League MVP was named to his seventh All-Star Game and is widely considered the favorite to win another Cy Young award.
More from Los Angeles Dodgers
- MLB Rumors: Cardinals budging on Arenado, Orioles-Ohtani package, Yankees backup plan
- MLB Rumors: Shocking Shohei Ohtani suitor would be Dodgers, Giants nightmare
- MLB Rumors: Shohei Ohtani, Angels, Dodgers, Rich Hill
- NY Mets: 4 monstrous trade packages for Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer
- MLB Rumors: Willson Contreras trade suitor, Reds surprise move, Giolito war
With Kershaw serving as the only ace on the staff after the departure of Zack Grienke prior to this season, the Dodgers will certainly need their undisputed best player back on the bump every fifth day if they are to compete with the National League West-leading San Francisco Giants.
However, without Kershaw, the Dodgers have exceeded expectations, going 5-1 in his absence.
Check out our MLB hub page for more news and updates.