Los Angeles Dodgers fans have enjoyed an unforgettable week, from an emotional first pitch by World Series hero Kirk Gibson to Mookie Betts’ thrilling walk-off home run. Now, future Hall of Famer is looking to keep the good news coming.
He had been battling a lingering stomach illness that caused him to lose nearly 20 pounds, returned to action in dominant fashion, hitting two home runs and driving in four runs over his first two games. Given his recent health struggles, fans had reason to worry he might land on the 60-day injured list alongside Kershaw. Instead, Betts is back and playing at an elite level.
Meanwhile, Kershaw, who turned 37 earlier this month, is working his way back as well. Saturday marked his first time facing live hitters this year as he continues recovering from knee and toe surgeries while on the 60-day injured list.
“I think overall it’s good progress,” the 10-time All-Star and three-time NL Cy Young winner told reporters Friday. “I’m not going to be happy until I’m out on the mound,” he added, as reported by the Los Angeles Daily News. “But I think everybody—doctors and training staff—would say I’m doing what I need to be doing.”
Kershaw remains optimistic about his recovery, saying he feels “encouraged” and hopes to pitch in games, whether on a rehab assignment or in the majors, by late May. “It feels way better than it did,” Kershaw noted. “It’s getting there. I don’t know if I would say it’s where I want it, but it’s getting there.”
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Although the Dodgers already have a full rotation, Kershaw’s steady recovery is great news for the World Series favorites. Just two seasons ago, he delivered a stellar 2.46 ERA and 3.7 bWAR across 24 starts—his best performance since 2017. However, injuries took a toll last year, limiting him to just seven starts with a 4.50 ERA. He also missed the Dodgers’ postseason run.
Over his 17-season career, Kershaw boasts an impressive 212-94 record with a 2.50 ERA and 2,968 strikeouts. If he remains on track, he’s poised to reach the 3,000-strikeout milestone this summer.
