At Dodger Stadium, the pitcher’s mound has been a part of many pivotal moments throughout history. From delivering the winning pitches in crucial games to the debuts of talents past and present, it has been a part of many important milestones. Saturday in Los Angeles marked yet another pivotal moment for the Dodgers as their ace took the mound in a crucial step toward his recovery.
After having missed the entire 2024 season so far, Clayton Kershaw returned to action as he threw his first simulated game since going on the Injured List. Afflicted by a severe shoulder injury, Kershaw has been recovering from surgery since November of last year.
Will Clayton Kershaw rejoin the rotation soon and help Los Angeles dominate their division?
Los Angeles Ace Takes Critical Step
Before the Dodgers faced the Colorado Rockies on Saturday, Kershaw faced teammates, Chris Taylor, Austin Barnes, and minor league player, Kendall George. In this outing, Kershaw threw 20 pitches, simulating just one inning of work.
Between those 20 pitches, he threw most of his arsenal. According to Los Angeles Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, he threw his fastball and slider while reaching 88 MPH on the radar gun. Roberts compared Kershaw’s situation to spring training, saying that a six-week timeline could be expected, however with Kershaw’s eagerness and hard work, it could be as soon as four weeks.
In terms of health, Kershaw felt up to par with his performance. He was able to throw without pain and make quality pitches. Being able to face hitters and be in a more game-like atmosphere was a challenge that Kershaw was excited to take on at this point in his recovery. Building up his performance and fine-tuning his pitches will be the focus for Kershaw moving forward.
Kershaw’s IL Stint
Kershaw underwent left shoulder surgery on November 3, 2023. He was battling shoulder pain throughout the 2023 season but still managed to put up impressive numbers on the year. He registered an ERA of 2.46 and a WHIP of 1.06.
Though he had a great season in 2023, he and the Los Angeles Dodgers came up short in postseason play. Due to the pain he was facing, Kershaw’s post-season performance was less than satisfactory. Many had speculated Kershaw would hang up his cleats following the end of last season, however, that was not the case for this long-time superstar. A valiant ending to his career is what this future hall of famer is seeking.
Kershaw is no stranger to the IL. He has battled many injuries, though none specifically to his throwing arm. Throughout his career, his back has been the cause of most of his pain. He has spent time on the IL over the last decade due to back ailments. The left shoulder has been a first for Kershaw as he learns to navigate his recovery fully.
Kershaw Moving Forward For Los Angeles
Kershaw is continuing his program to return to action this summer. Los Angeles is hopeful the return of their superstar will come by July.
The Dodgers are aiming to build his pitch count with each performance to get him in elite shape. Kershaw will be throwing another simulated game in Rancho Cucamonga where he will pitch two innings. He will face the Quakes as the Dodgers are on the road.
About The Author
Rebekah Cook is a sports journalist from North Carolina who specializes in Major League Baseball. She is a recent graduate from the University of South Carolina Aiken where she worked in the athletic department covering all sports through her writing. An avid sports fan, Rebekah has played softball for 16 years, including at the collegiate level. Sports Journalism has been her passion for nearly 10 years.
