Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw Hopes to Pitch in MLB Playoffs amid Injury: 'Not Giving Up'

Clayton Kershaw has not lost hope of a 2024 return.

The Los Angeles Dodgers southpaw is currently on the injured list due to a bone spur in his toe. While he doesn't currently have a return date set, he said that he is hoping to return soon.

"I'm not giving up," Kershaw said, per Alden Gonzalez of ESPN. "I'm going to keep trying every day. Maybe it'll feel better one day. I'm just waiting for that day to happen."

Kershaw has not pitched since Aug. 30 when he left a start early due to issues pushing off of the mound. He said that the toe pain was causing him to "compensate" and that could have made him susceptible to other injuries. He then said that he expects to be solid once his injury heals.

"There's only a percentage I can throw without other stuff starting to bother me because I'm throwing differently," Kershaw said, per Gonzalez. "Whenever my toe feels better, I'm confident that I'll be good."

Kershaw has made seven starts in 2024, compiling a 2-2 record with a 4.50 ERA. While those numbers are not up to his lofty career standards, he remains an impactful pitcher and could add to a Dodgers staff that has dealt with injuries throughout the season.

Los Angeles is currently 95-64 and clinched the NL West on Thursday night. The playoff rotation will likely be led by Jack Flaherty, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Walker Buehler, but Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin could be postseason additions.

Whether Kershaw returns to the starting rotation or a less taxing relief role, the Dodgers will hope he can contribute to a deep playoff run.