Clayton Kershaw, the longtime Los Angeles Dodgers ace, made his return to the mound on Thursday night against the Colorado Rockies. This was his first start since late June. Kershaw pitched five innings, allowing just one run on three hits, which came from a solo home run. He struck out four batters and had no walks. His fastball velocity during the game was 90.7 mph, slightly lower than his usual speed. In the sixth inning, he was replaced by fellow lefty Ryan Yarbrough.
Kershaw had been sidelined since July 3 due to shoulder inflammation. He was expected to rejoin the rotation after the All-Star break, but an MRI revealed the need for two more weeks of rest, as advised by Dr. Neal ElAttrache. Despite his absence, Kershaw was selected to his 10th All-Star Game.
Before his injury, Kershaw had a 2.55 ERA and a 4.38 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 95 1/3 innings pitched this season, leading the Dodgers in innings. The Dodgers have managed a 21-9 record since Kershaw went on the injured list, and currently hold a six-game lead in the National League West with a 67-46 season record.
Kershaw’s return is timely for the Dodgers, as they are also missing other starters such as Walker Buehler, Dustin May, and Michael Grove. Buehler is aiming to make his own return in September after undergoing Tommy John surgery in August 2022.
