As Clayton Kershaw was shut down because of inflammation in his throwing shoulder, the Los Angeles Dodgers were simultaneously exercising caution with Walker Buehler. During the early stages, the club maintained both pitchers would be available come Opening Day.
But as time progressed, the odds grew longer of Kershaw extending his franchise record by making a ninth consecutive start in a season opener. And though Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated Buehler was healthy, it later was revealed the right-hander wasn’t feeling quite 100 percent.
Buehler downplayed the matter, which he attributed to remnants of setting a career high with 177 innings pitched (Minors, Majors and postseason) in 2018.