Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that Clayton Kershaw will make a minor-league rehab start next Wednesday, according to Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times.

The Dodgers have been cautious with the future Hall of Famer, but have been far more open with providing a timeline for the veteran’s return in recent weeks. Kershaw will make his first start in Triple-A Oklahoma City.

Clayton Kershaw to Make Rehab Start Next Wednesday

On the Mend

Kershaw is one of seven pitchers on the injured list for Los Angeles.

The earliest the left-hander can come off the 60-day IL is May 17th. The three-time Cy Young Award winner is recovering and rehabbing from multiple surgeries he underwent last November, most notably a procedure to remove a bone spur from his left big toe.

The injury severely affected his availability and ultimately his effectiveness in the 2024 season. The 2014 NL MVP regrets not being able to contribute on the field the way he’d like. However, his teammates have said his clubhouse leadership has been invaluable.

A Dodger for Life

The 18-year veteran signed a one-year contract in spring training. The incentive-laden contract has bonuses based on innings pitched.

Where Does He Fit?

There was once a plethora of options from which the Dodgers were free to choose. However, when Blake Snell landed on the 10-day IL with shoulder inflammation, the Dodgers were forced to test their depth early. Needless to say, it didn’t go as well as they had hoped.

Justin Wrobleski and Landon Knack went a combined 7 2/3 innings, giving up 12 hits and 13 earned runs, along with seven walks. Based on these results, it is easy to see that a Kershaw return would be welcomed.

What’s Ahead?

Kershaw is making his second comeback in as many years. He had major shoulder surgery in 2023. The left-hander is just 32 strikeouts away from 3,ooo in an already illustrious career.

Whatever happens in the future, fans will savor every Kershaw Day to come until Cooperstown.\