Strategic Rest: Kershaw’s NLCS Absence Signals Dodgers’ Long-Term World Series Plan

Title: Clayton Kershaw’s Impact on the Dodgers’ World Series Run: What It Means for the Team and Players

In a recent press conference, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw will be included on the team’s roster for the upcoming 2025 World Series. This decision comes after Kershaw’s absence from the NLCS roster, where he did not make an appearance during the series against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Despite not featuring in the NLCS, Kershaw’s storied career and impressive track record make him a valuable asset for the Dodgers heading into the Fall Classic. With a resume that boasts 11 All-Star Game selections, three Cy Young Awards, an MVP accolade, and two World Series titles, Kershaw is on track to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

However, Kershaw’s postseason performance has been a point of contention throughout his career. While he has excelled during the regular season, his playoff stats paint a different picture, with a 4.63 ERA and 13-13 record in 40 postseason outings. Despite these challenges, Kershaw’s experience and skill set offer the Dodgers additional pitching options, especially considering the bullpen’s inconsistency outside of closer Roki Sasaki.

The Dodgers’ rotation strategy for the World Series is expected to mirror their NLCS lineup, featuring pitchers like Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Shohei Ohtani. This rotation, combined with the potential inclusion of Kershaw, gives the Dodgers a well-rounded pitching arsenal to counter the threat posed by the formidable Toronto Blue Jays.

As the Dodgers gear up for the World Series showdown, Kershaw’s presence on the roster signifies a blend of veteran leadership and championship pedigree that could prove crucial in their pursuit of another title. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, Kershaw’s role highlights the importance of experience and depth in navigating the pressures of postseason baseball.

Source: bleacherreport.com