The Dodgers are not divulging who will start Game 4 of the NLDS in an elimination situation for them, and their pitchers are remaining mum too.
After losing to the Nationals in Game 3 on Monday, the Dodgers fell behind in the series 2-1. For Tuesday’s game, they are deciding between Julio Urias, the rookie southpaw who was originally slated for Game 4, and three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw.
Kershaw would not reveal who will start the contest.
Clayton Kershaw politely declined to comment on whether he will pitch tomorrow. But he hasn't trashed the clubhouse in fury yet, either.
— Andy McCullough (@McCulloughTimes) October 11, 2016
The Dodgers say they won't announce their starter until tomorrow. "You guys look angry," Kershaw jokes to a group of reporters.
— Andy McCullough (@McCulloughTimes) October 11, 2016
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts explained that he was hesitant to pitch the young Urias on the road in Game 5 instead of the more experienced Kershaw.
Roberts said the hesitation in picking Kershaw for Game 4 is concern about starting Urias on the road in Game 5
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) October 11, 2016
Julio Urias said he doesn't know if he's starting tomorrow. Like Kershaw, he threw abbreviated bullpen session yesterday.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) October 11, 2016
Kershaw has pitched Game 4 of the NLDS for the Dodgers on short rest three seasons in a row. The Dodgers went 2-1 in the games, with Kershaw pitching well in two of those starts. Given Kershaw’s history of pitching Game 4s on short rest in the playoffs, I would go with him. You can’t worry about Game 5 unless you win Game 4, and Kershaw gives you the best chance of winning the one that matters most.
If you’re fortunate enough to get to Game 5, then you can put Urias on a quick hook and work your bullpen heavily in the game if need be. But I’d much rather have that to worry about then be eliminated in four games.
