The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially placed veteran left-hander Clayton Kershaw on the 15-day injured list due to a bone spur in his left big toe.
Kershaw exited Friday’s matchup against the Arizona Diamondbacks after just two innings, leading to concerns about his health. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted the severity of the situation, stating, “There’s so much swelling, he can barely move around.”
During his brief appearance, Kershaw struggled, allowing three runs in the first inning. His unexpected early exit forced the Dodgers to utilize every reliever on their roster, with the exception of Evan Phillips, who had pitched in the prior two games.
In response to Kershaw’s injury, the Dodgers have called up right-handed pitcher Ben Casparius from Triple-A Oklahoma City. “We need some coverage for tonight,” Roberts explained, while also indicating that Kershaw’s recovery timeline remains uncertain. However, he reassured fans, stating, “I don’t think the 15 days will cut into the buildup of his stamina.”
Kershaw’s season has already been impacted by injury, as he only returned to the mound on July 25 after undergoing offseason shoulder surgery. This year, he holds a record of 2-2 with a 4.50 ERA across seven starts. Over his impressive 17-season career with the Dodgers, the ten-time All-Star boasts a remarkable 212-94 record with a 2.50 ERA.
In addition to Kershaw, right-hander Joe Kelly has also been placed on the injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. Kelly pitched 1 2/3 innings on Friday, surrendering two earned runs on three hits. The 13-year veteran currently has a record of 1-1 with a 5.20 ERA in 31 appearances this season.
To fill Kelly’s spot, the Dodgers have selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Brent Honeywell, marking his second stint with the team this season after being designated for assignment on August 18.
Left-handed pitcher Justin Wrobleski is also with the team, and he is set to be activated for the game against Arizona, coinciding with roster expansion on Sunday.
