The Los Angeles Dodgers, widely regarded as baseball’s premier team, have started their 2025 campaign strongly, securing victories against the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo and the Detroit Tigers at Dodger Stadium. With Dave Roberts at the helm, the Dodgers are poised for another successful season, and the potential return of Clayton Kershaw could significantly enhance their prospects.
Clayton Kershaw To Face Hitters on Saturday For Los Angeles Dodgers
Kershaw, who underwent knee and toe surgeries in the offseason, is making steady progress in his recovery. He’s scheduled to face hitters on Saturday, a key step in assessing his readiness. Ideally, Kershaw aims to return to game action by the end of May, although his role might be that of a part-time starter. Despite his age, his experience, pitching acumen, and past achievements would make him a valuable asset to the Dodgers.
The Dodgers’ pitching staff, already boasting Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki, and Dustin May, is significantly healthier than it was during their World Series victory over the New York Yankees. Their bullpen, featuring Blake Treinen, Anthony Banda, Alex Vesia, and closer Tanner Scott, is also a strong point.
Furthermore, the Dodgers anticipate the return of Shohei Ohtani to the mound. Ohtani, who sat out the 2024 season following Tommy John surgery in 2023, is progressing in his recovery. Roberts is taking a cautious approach, prioritizing Ohtani’s long-term health. Ohtani had a bullpen session in late February and is scheduled for another on Saturday.
The combined return of Kershaw and Ohtani to the Dodgers’ pitching rotation would elevate an already formidable team, posing an even greater challenge to their National League rivals.