Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw is nearing a return to the team's starting rotation, with reports indicating a potential debut around May 18. The left-hander has been working through rehab starts after undergoing offseason toe and knee surgeries.
MLB insider Jon Heyman stated Kershaw's return is expected around that date. This timeline aligns with the pitcher's eligibility to come off the 60-day injured list on May 17.
Kershaw was scheduled for a rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Oklahoma City. However, the Oklahoma City Comets announced the start was canceled due to the weather forecast.
The cancellation marks a delay in Kershaw's progression, as he was expected to throw approximately five innings and 75 pitches in the scheduled outing. The team will now determine when and where his next rehab appearance will take place.
Before the weather cancellation, Kershaw had completed two rehab starts, one at Double-A and one at Triple-A. He allowed one earned run over six innings across those appearances, recording six strikeouts. In his previous outing, he threw 60 pitches.
Kershaw's return would provide depth to the Los Angeles Dodgers rotation, which has seen others sidelined. The team has navigated the early part of the season with a thinner pitching staff than anticipated.
It is possible Clayton Kershaw could make additional rehab starts before rejoining the major league club in mid-to-late May.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is expected to provide an update on Kershaw's status and the plan following the canceled start.
