While the Los Angeles Dodgers have become adept over recent seasons to remaining afloat without Clayton Kershaw, this year marked the first time he was not included on the club’s Opening Day roster.
Furthermore, that snapped Kershaw’s franchise record of consecutive Opening Day starts at eight. Hyun-Jin Ryu filled in admirably for his fellow left-hander, and the Dodgers have started the season 3-1 behind an impressive offensive display.
All the while Kershaw has continued to increase his level of activity as he looks to return from inflammation in his throwing shoulder. The latest step was completing a three-inning simulated game at Dodger Stadium over the weekend.