Over the past several years, Clayton Kershaw has remained effective as a pitcher, but has dealt with more than his fair share of injuries.
The 35-year-old is currently dealing with a bout of shoulder inflammation.
The left-hander recently received a cortisone shot in his shoulder to help ease the pain.
After receiving the shot, the Los Angeles Dodgers lefty was asked about a potential timetable for a return to action.
Kershaw is not currently on the injured list.
However, it’s possible that he may not pitch again until the second half.
On Thursday, Kershaw commented on the status of his shoulder and said that he would be careful about things, but that if he feels good, he’ll pitch.
Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times tweeted Kershaw’s response.
“I’m not gonna be stupid. If I feel good, I’ll pitch, and if it feels like it needs a few days or I need to wait through the break, I’ll do that." #Dodgers LHP Clayton Kershaw took a cortisone shot for an inflamed shoulder but confident he'll return soon. https://t.co/CP2CnwVKNu
— Mike DiGiovanna (@MikeDiGiovanna) June 30, 2023
Kershaw became a free agent at the end of the 2022 season, but re-signed with the Dodgers in the offseason.
He has enjoyed a solid campaign in 2023, going 10-4 in his 16 starts with an impressive ERA of 2.55 over 95.1 innings of work.
He also has struck out 105 batters and posted a WHIP of 1.05.
It appears that Kershaw is in good spirits about where things stand with his shoulder.
The veteran left-hander expressed confidence that he would return soon, but also made sure to note that he didn’t want to push too hard and that if he had to wait until after the All-Star break, he would be willing to do that.
Kershaw has won an MVP and three Cy Young awards with the Dodgers.
The 35-year-old also won a World Series ring in 2020.
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