Dodgers Get Positive Update on Clayton Kershaw

We are still about three weeks away from Heyman’s predicted return for Kershaw, but his eventual debut will be a welcome sight for the Dodgers. He has been progressing through rehab starts and is well-positioned to ameliorate the middle or bottom of this rotation.

The 37-year-old was limited to just seven starts in 2024 after recovering from shoulder surgery. Then, he missed the 2024 postseason with foot and knee problems and underwent surgery on his meniscus last November.

The future first-ballot Hall of Fame inductee is nearing the final days of his historic career, but that does not mean he can not still lock down opposing lineups.

Kershaw was named to the National League All-Star teams in 2022 and 2023, and had a combined 2.37 ERA and 3.31 FIP over 258 innings. No, he is not going to rediscover his 2011-14 form, which saw him win three Cy Youngs and an MVP. But he is still a more than capable pitcher with a wealth of knowledge and experience.

This seemingly impenetrable Dodgers rotation has been burdened by injuries, and with so many unknowns remaining this summer, it is encouraging that someone with Kershaw’s pedigree will be back on the mound soon.