The Dodgers are hoping Clayton Kershaw can return in time for the postseason. Photo Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw, sidelined with a lower back injury since late June, has resumed baseball activities hoping for a return to the mound this season.
Kershaw played catch Sunday at Dodger Stadium for the first time since a July 16 simulated game was followed by a setback.
“Clayton played catch today, first day. I haven’t heard how he came out of it, but today was that first day,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters Sunday. “I’m sure there was some soreness, but it was good to see him with a baseball in his hand.”
Kershaw has not pitched since June 26 because of a mild herniated disk. The Dodgers and Kershaw are hoping to avoid surgery.
Kershaw was moved to the 60-day disabled list last week and is not eligible to return until Aug. 27.
“I think that all along we’ve expected, and a little bit of it is being hopeful, for him to make starts for us this year in September,” Roberts said.
“Clayton’s not a guy we worry about with the intensity, the intent to get back. He’ll be back as soon as he possibly can.”
Kershaw gave up four runs in six innings against Pittsburgh on June 26 and he complained of increased back stiffness. He was placed on the disabled list the next day
Prior to the injury, the 28-year-old left-hander Kershaw had a major-league-best 1.79 ERA along with an 11-2 record in 16 starts, with 145 strikeouts and nine walks over 121 innings.
