Clayton Kershaw ‘Ramping Up The Intensity’ With Throwing Program

After pitching through a significant left shoulder injury during the second half of the 2023 season, Clayton Kershaw underwent surgery less than three weeks after the Los Angeles Dodgers were swept by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the National League Division Series.

Kershaw’s surgery was to repair the glenohumeral ligaments and capsule in his left shoulder. The procedure was completed by Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache and came with a long rehab process ahead.

Although a free agent at the time of his operation, Kershaw said he looked forward to pitching again in 2024. He went on to re-sign with the Dodgers on a one-year contract that includes a player option for 2025.

As Kershaw continues to navigate through his recovery, progress is being made toward increasing how hard he’s able to throw, per Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:

“Just kind of ramping up the intensity a little bit and starting to throw a little bit harder than just lobbing it,” he said. “Once I scoot in to 60 feet again, I start throwing with a little more intensity.”

Kershaw briefly joined the Dodgers at Spring Training over two stints and has been with the team since their Dodger Stadium opener last week.

Like often was the case when the longtime ace was healthy, Kershaw has regularly been seen on the field before games, playing catch and going through some form of a workout. Thus far he’s stretched long toss out to roughly 120 feet.

Kershaw expects to be with the Dodgers during their home games and otherwise will continue with his rehab process in Dallas when the team is on the road.

When is Clayton Kershaw returning?

Kershaw and the Dodgers have been reluctant to publicly set a target date for his return from the 60-day injured list, but it generally is expected to take place after the All-Star break.

The most realistic estimate doesn’t have Kershaw being part of the Dodgers rotation until some point in August.