Clayton Kershaw will not want surgical procedure, however seemingly will not pitch in postseason

Clayton Kershaw left his most up-to-date regular-season begin on account of recurring forearm discomfort. The Dodgers star didn’t undergo any UCL injury and won’t require surgical procedure, supervisor Dave Roberts advised reporters (including Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times). Nonetheless, the three-time Cy Younger award winner is just not anticipated to return this postseason.

The information comes as one thing of a blended bag. On the one hand, it definitely appeared ominous when Kershaw left his ultimate begin of the yr with forearm discomfort, not lengthy after coming back from a two-plus month absence because of the identical concern. It’s definitely a reduction that regardless of that recurring drawback, Kershaw received’t must go underneath the knife.

Nonetheless, he’ll little doubt be upset he’s not capable of return to assist the Dodgers’ efforts to repeat as World Collection winners. It’s potential Kershaw wouldn’t have pitched within the postseason even have been he wholesome. Max Scherzer was prone to get the ball in Wednesday evening’s wild-card sport anyhow, and the Dodgers’ title protection might finish with that lone contest. However a lengthier playoff run would certainly have seen a wholesome Kershaw logging some necessary innings, and that’ll not be the case.

It’s additionally notably unlucky timing for Kershaw personally. The 33-year-old is slated to hit the open market this winter. When wholesome, Kershaw has once more been glorious. Over 121 2/3 innings, the previous MVP labored to a 3.55 ERA whereas hanging out a powerful 29.5% of batters confronted and issuing walks at only a 4.3% clip. Kershaw’s velocity has steadily ticked downward in current seasons, however he’s however been among the many sport’s handiest pitchers yr in and yr out. He was trending towards being one of many high starters out there in free company this offseason, however his current well being woes will throw a wrench in that analysis for groups.

The Dodgers additionally supplied an replace on Max Muncy, who injured his elbow in a collision at first base throughout Sunday’s regular-season finale. Muncy advised reporters (including Juan Toribio of MLB.com) he suffered a dislocated elbow and a few structural injury. Fortuitously for Muncy and the Dodgers, he received’t require surgical restore. Roberts didn’t rule out the potential for Muncy returning in some unspecified time in the future this postseason (Toribio link).