Dodgers left-handed pitcher Clayton Kershaw has hit an unexpected setback in his recovery following shoulder surgery, causing concern among Dodgers fans and management. Initially, all signs were positive as Kershaw had already completed one rehab start and was scheduled for a second outing. However, what seemed like a straightforward return to the mound has now been delayed due to "lingering soreness."
Kershaw's journey back to form has now been paused for at least a week, as doctors have advised him to cease throwing until the soreness subsides. While an MRI revealed no new problems, the extended recovery time has cast a shadow on his immediate future with the big-league roster.
The Initial Injury and Rehab
Last November, Kershaw underwent surgery to repair the glenohumeral ligaments and the capsule in his left shoulder. The procedure was expected to sideline him for a significant period, but the initial stages of rehab were promising. In his first rehab outing, Kershaw displayed his hallmark precision, pitching three innings and throwing 36 pitches.
For Kershaw to return to the Dodgers’ starting rotation, he needs to be capable of finishing at least five innings and throwing around 75 pitches. This benchmark is essential for the management to feel confident in activating him. However, with this recent setback, his return might be further delayed, targeting an optimistic timeline of sometime in August.
The Toll on Dodgers' Pitching Staff
Kershaw’s prolonged absence is not an isolated incident for the Dodgers this season. Their pitching staff has been plagued by injuries, compromising their rotational depth and consistency. Walker Buehler started the season on the injured list, a scenario that immediately put the Dodgers in a predicament. Since then, Bobby Miller also had a lengthy stint on the injured list, and both Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin have been shelved for the entire year.
Recently, the injury bug bit again, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto also joining the list of sidelined pitchers. This cluster of ailments has tested the Dodgers’ resilience and depth, prompting management to sift through their bullpen and minor league affiliates for stop-gap solutions.
Dodgers' Standings Amid the Challenges
Despite these significant setbacks, the Dodgers have exhibited remarkable fortitude. As of Monday, the team holds a 48-31 record, maintaining an 8.5-game lead in the NL West. This advantageous position in the standings is a testament to the team’s depth and the ability of manager Dave Roberts to adapt and overcome adversity.
Manager’s Perspective
Dave Roberts addressed Kershaw’s situation with a pragmatic outlook, recognizing that this hiccup, while unfortunate, is a typical part of the rehabilitation process. "This is part of the process as far as anyone that goes through rehab, that goes through a surgery, and is on his way back," Roberts said. He further emphasized the predictability of such setbacks in the recovery trajectory, adding, "It's not surprising. It's not perfect, but it's not surprising in the fact that there is a little bit of a regression in the throwing process."
Roberts’ perspective is grounded in experience, understanding that a player's recovery from surgery rarely follows a linear path. His comments reflect a balance of realism and optimism, an approach that can offer reassurance to a fanbase eager to see one of their aces back on the mound.
The season’s narrative for the Dodgers has been one of navigating treacherous waters with calculated strategies and deep roster resilience. While Kershaw’s return is eagerly anticipated, the team's performance without their key pitchers speaks volumes about their capability to contend at a high level. The Dodgers’ lead in the NL West provides a cushion, albeit one that will require constant vigilance and adaptability in the weeks ahead. For now, the baseball community waits with bated breath, hoping that Kershaw’s next MRI and subsequent rehab efforts will pave the way for a smooth and timely comeback.