Kershaw Remains in Limbo as Toe Injury Persists

Los Angeles Dodgers' ace Clayton Kershaw is still in a "holding pattern" due to a lingering toe injury, with no plans currently in place for him to face hitters.

Los Angeles Dodgers' ace Clayton Kershaw is still grappling with a nagging toe injury, leaving his status for the remainder of the season uncertain. Manager Dave Roberts revealed Tuesday that Kershaw will not be facing hitters this week, indicating that the veteran left-hander is still struggling to overcome the bone spur in his left big toe.

Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young Award winner and 10-time All-Star, had been sidelined since August 31, as the injury continues to hinder his progress. The 36-year-old returned to the mound in July after undergoing offseason shoulder surgery, but has struggled to regain his form, posting a 2-2 record with a 4.50 ERA in seven starts before getting injured.

"I don't think there's been improvement," Roberts said Tuesday. "Him not facing hitters this week is pretty telling in itself."

While Kershaw has been playing catch, Roberts noted that "there's something that's holding him up from progressing to face hitters." The Dodgers' skipper expressed hope that the team will have a better understanding of Kershaw's condition in the coming days.

Kershaw's injury is a major blow to the Dodgers, who are currently leading the NL West. The team has relied on a rotation that includes Julio Urías, Tony Gonsolin, and Dustin May, but Kershaw's experience and leadership would be invaluable in the postseason.

Despite the setback, Roberts emphasized that Kershaw remains determined to be available whenever needed. "He'll do whatever he can to be available whenever he's needed," Roberts said.

Kershaw signed a one-year contract in February with a 2025 player option worth $5 million. However, if he is healthy at the end of the season, the option can escalate by $15 million based on criteria involving starts or relief innings.

The Dodgers are hopeful that Kershaw can overcome his injury and make a significant contribution to the team's quest for a World Series title. However, his status remains uncertain, leaving the team in a holding pattern as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season.