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12:51 AM UTC
DENVER — After a couple of days, Clayton Kershaw disclosed that he has left shoulder inflammation, which is why he exited Tuesday night’s start against the Rockies after six innings and just 79 pitches.
Kershaw said his shoulder was “a little cranky” in the sixth inning and that’s why he told the Dodgers he was likely done for the night. The southpaw said he didn’t get an MRI exam, but he did receive an injection to help with the inflammation. That will prevent him from throwing a baseball for two or three days.
Once Kershaw is cleared to throw, he will play catch. How he feels coming off that session will ultimately determine if he’ll be able to make his next scheduled start, which is currently slated for Monday against the Pirates at Dodger Stadium.
“I’ve had some shoulder stuff in the past, but it’s been like three or four years though, and usually the shots help pretty good,” Kershaw said. “So, somewhat optimistic that I should be good. Hopeful to not miss the start.”
While Kershaw said he wants to make his next start, he also said he’s “not gonna be stupid” about it. Manager Dave Roberts said that if Kershaw isn’t able to make his start on Monday, it’s unlikely that they push his next turn back because it would affect the rest of the rotation.
With the All-Star break coming up, a potential stint on the injured list is technically possible for Kershaw, but the left-hander has earned the right to make that decision, according to Roberts.
“I think if I feel good, I’ll pitch,” Kershaw said. “And if it feels like it needs a few days or needs to wait through the break, I’ll do that, too. But I don’t think it’s going to be a long thing or anything like that, regardless.”
Roberts did say that if Kershaw is able to throw on Friday, that bodes well for him making his next turn. But if Kershaw isn’t able to play catch until Saturday, that might complicate his between-starts routine for a Monday start.
“Obviously, Clayton is very routine oriented,” Roberts said. “But there have been times recently in his career where he has not thrown a ‘pen because of things like this. … For me, we’re in a holding pattern and just kind of taking it day by day.”
If Kershaw does go on the IL, he would miss two starts — Monday against the Pirates and July 8 against the Angels. With the Dodgers thinking long-term, giving Kershaw essentially a two-week break does have its upside.
Kershaw has been the Dodgers’ best pitcher this season, leading the National League with 10 wins. With another terrific first half, Kershaw is likely to earn his 10th All-Star selection on Sunday.
With how valuable he has been, the Dodgers will continue to take a cautious approach with Kershaw. But it’ll ultimately be his call.
Either way, it does appear the left-hander avoided a significant injury, a huge sigh of relief for the Dodgers.
“I think obviously when you’re talking about the flareup, especially the shoulder with a pitcher, but then after the ensuing days, he’s starting to feel better,” Roberts said. “He’s moving and not feeling the soreness. Yeah, [we feel] much better.”
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