Clayton Kershaw’s Anticipated Return: A Boost for the Dodgers
Baseball fans, especially those rooting for the Los Angeles Dodgers, have something to look forward to this weekend. The legendary Clayton Kershaw is set to make his season debut on Saturday against the Los Angeles Angels. This isn’t just any debut; it’s the return of a player who has been a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ pitching staff for nearly two decades.
The 37-year-old left-hander, who has been with the Dodgers for 18 seasons, started this year on the injured list. He was recovering from toe and knee surgeries, a process that has kept fans and teammates eagerly awaiting his return. His comeback is timely, as the Dodgers are currently dealing with a depleted pitching roster. Starters Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and rookie Roki Sasaki are all on the injured list, making Kershaw’s return even more crucial.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed his excitement about Kershaw’s return, stating, “It’s a big shot in the arm. Clayton has worked really hard to get healthy and the bar is high for him. He doesn’t want to just come back to be active. He wants to come back and help us win baseball games and be good. I know he’s excited to contribute.”
In his final rehab start with Triple-A Oklahoma City, Kershaw showed promising signs. He struck out two batters, gave up two runs, two hits, and two walks over four innings, throwing a total of 57 pitches. Reflecting on his performance, Kershaw told KLAC-AM, “It felt good to be focused on pitching. The last few times I pitched last year I just focused on how much my foot was hurting. Just focusing on the next pitch as opposed to what hurts. It’s been a hard road, but I’m feeling good.”
Roberts added that Kershaw’s return “adds an element of certainty and performance” to the team. This is a sentiment echoed by many, as Kershaw is not just a player but a symbol of resilience and excellence for the Dodgers.
As Kershaw prepares to tie Zack Wheat and Bill Russell for the most years with the Dodgers franchise, he reflects on his journey. He and Russell are the only players to have logged 18 seasons since the Dodgers moved to Los Angeles in 1958. “I’m tired of taking up space,” Kershaw said. “I want to contribute and help the team out.”
With 32 strikeouts needed to reach 3,000, alongside his 212 career wins, Kershaw is on the brink of yet another milestone. His determination to retire on his own terms is evident. “If I go out there and get shelled and I’m not good anymore that’s one thing,” he said. “If another hitter gets the best of me that’s one thing, but I’m not going to let it do it to myself.”
Last year, Kershaw’s season was cut short after only seven starts due to pain in his left big toe. He watched from the sidelines as the Dodgers clinched their eighth World Series title against the New York Yankees. Despite being away from the field, Kershaw has been following his teammates closely on TV. “It’s a great team. Forty games in, you can see a lot of things that are going really well,” he said. “I just want to be a part of it.”
- Clayton Kershaw’s return is highly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.
- His comeback is crucial due to the current injuries plaguing the Dodgers’ pitching staff.
- Kershaw is on the verge of reaching 3,000 strikeouts, adding to his impressive career achievements.
- His determination to retire on his own terms is a testament to his dedication and love for the game.
As the Dodgers prepare to face the Angels, all eyes will be on Kershaw. His return is not just about adding another player to the roster; it’s about reigniting the spirit and strength of a team that has seen its fair share of challenges this season. Welcome back, Clayton Kershaw. The mound has missed you.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
