Dodgers make big announcement about Clayton Kershaw’s playoff status

Mar 4, 2020; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22) looks on prior to a spring training game against the San Francisco Giants at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Dodgers made a big announcement about the status of pitcher Clayton Kershaw for the MLB playoffs.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Saturday that Kershaw will not be available for the postseason, as the pitcher’s toe injury is actually getting worse, not better. The team had hoped he would be able to contribute in some form despite not having pitched since Aug. 30.

Dave Roberts said Clayton Kershaw won't pitch again this year.

"Where he's at right now physically, the foot, the toe, is not cooperating. It's actually getting worse. This is it for Clayton in 2024."

— Matthew Moreno (@Matthew__Moreno) October 5, 2024

Kershaw last pitched at the end of August due to his toe issue. At the time, Roberts characterized the problem as bone spurs, and time off does not appear to have addressed the issue.

The Dodgers were not necessarily planning on being reliant on Kershaw, who has notoriously struggled in the playoffs throughout much of his career. Considering how beaten up the team’s pitching staff is, they were still hoping for some innings out of the 36-year-old lefty.

Kershaw finishes his season with a 4.50 ERA in seven starts. He has a $5 million player option for 2025, so he could still return to the Dodgers for one more year.