“It’s exciting to be able to do that at any time. “It will be fun.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers, who advanced to the National League Division Series, early confirmed ‘210-win legend’ Clayton Kershaw (35) as the first starter for fall baseball. The Athletic said on the 2nd (Korean time), “Kershaw’s next appearance will be Game 1 of the Division Series, which will be held at Dodger Stadium for a week starting Saturday.”레고토토
The LA Dodgers ranked second in the National League in winning percentage with 100 wins and 62 losses and a winning percentage of 0.617, following the Atlanta Braves (104 wins and 58 losses, a winning percentage of 0.642). The two clubs advanced directly to the best-of-five division series starting on the 8th. The Dodgers will meet the winner of the Milwaukee Brewers-Arizona Diamondbacks wild card series.
Coach Dave Roberts told The Athletic about Kershaw’s decision to be the first starter in the postseason, saying, “It’s a fairly easy decision.” Kershaw recorded 13 wins, 5 losses, and an ERA of 2.46 in 24 games this season. He returned as the ace of the Dodgers’ starting lineup after suffering from a string injury. With 210 wins, he ranks second among the Dodgers with the most wins.
It is true that this is the weakest starting lineup in recent years. Kershaw and Bobby Miller are a one-two punch, but Coach Roberts chose Kershaw over Miller, who has no postseason experience. Kershaw had various minor injuries, including his back and shoulder, this year, but the Dodgers have no other alternatives and have great faith in Kershaw.
After being notified of being selected as the first selection, Kershaw said, “I’m excited to be able to do that, any time. It will be fun. I never thought I could be here. I really didn’t expect it. But I am here and I will be ready.”
It has been a long time since Kershaw played as the first starter in the postseason. In fact, he isn’t very good in the post season. In 38 career games (31 as a starter), he has 13 wins, 12 losses, 1 hold, 1 save, and an earned run average of 4.22. Last year he appeared in only one game and had an ERA of 5.40. There hasn’t even been a postseason win for two years since 2020, when he backed up the World Series championship with 4 wins, 1 loss and an average ERA of 2.93 in 5 games.
Coach Roberts has high expectations. At the same time, he once again spoke about retirement rumors. “He is a very humble player. This could potentially be his final regular season game for the Dodgers, but he’s trying not to dive too deep. “I don’t think Kershaw wants to do that either.”
