The Los Angeles Dodgers have had to place Clayton Kershaw on the 15-day injured list due to a bone spur in his left big toe. Kershaw’s injury flared up during Friday’s game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, forcing him to exit in the second inning. The swelling in his toe is significant enough that it’s affecting his mobility, leaving the Dodgers uncertain about the exact timeline for his return. However, they remain optimistic that Kershaw might be back before the season concludes.
Friday’s game was particularly challenging for Kershaw, who struggled in the first inning, giving up three runs before his early departure. This unexpected exit put pressure on the Dodgers’ bullpen, with every reliever except Evan Phillips having to pitch.
Kershaw’s 2024 season has been marked by his return from offseason shoulder surgery, and in the seven starts since his comeback on July 25, he has managed a 2-2 record with a 4.50 ERA. Despite these struggles, Kershaw’s career statistics remain impressive: 212 wins, 94 losses, a 2.50 ERA, and 10 All-Star selections.
The Dodgers’ pitching staff took another hit with Joe Kelly being placed on the injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. Kelly pitched 1⅔ innings on Friday, allowing two earned runs on three hits. His season has been up and down, with a 1-1 record and a 5.20 ERA over 31 games. These injuries come at a crucial time as the Dodgers look to solidify their position heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
In response to these injuries, the Dodgers called up right-hander Ben Casparius from Triple-A Oklahoma City and brought back right-hander Brent Honeywell, selecting his contract for the second time this season. Both pitchers contributed in relief during Saturday’s game—Honeywell gave up one run over two innings, while Casparius pitched a scoreless inning. These roster moves are aimed at strengthening the bullpen as the team deals with the absence of key players like Kershaw and Kelly.
With roster expansion on Sunday, the Dodgers are also preparing to activate left-hander Justin Wrobleski, who will start the upcoming game against Arizona. The team’s ability to navigate these recent injuries will be crucial as they push through the final month of the season, aiming to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the postseason despite the challenges they face.
