Clayton Kershaw, a legendary figure in Dodgers’ history, faces a potentially new role as the team advances in the NLCS. After an illustrious career primarily as a starting pitcher, manager Dave Roberts is considering Kershaw as a multi-inning reliever. This strategic shift could provide Kershaw with an opportunity to impact the game in a different, yet crucial way, especially given his announced retirement at the end of the season. This article dives into Roberts’ plans, Kershaw’s perspective, and what this means for the Dodgers’ chances in the NLCS.
This article will explore Dave Roberts’ reasoning behind this decision, examine Kershaw’s recent performance and historical postseason struggles, and assess the potential impact of this role change on the Dodgers’ pursuit of a championship. We’ll also consider Kershaw’s past successes and challenges against the Brewers, offering a comprehensive look at his potential contribution to the NLCS.
Kershaw’s Transition to Reliever
For most of his career, Clayton Kershaw has been the Dodgers’ ace, a dominant starting pitcher relied upon to set the tone. However, as the 2025 postseason unfolds, Dave Roberts is contemplating utilizing Kershaw in a relief role. This decision comes after Kershaw’s limited action in the NLDS against the Phillies, where he pitched only two innings.
Roberts sees Kershaw’s experience as a valuable asset in high-leverage situations. “I think with Clayton, I feel you can use him against lefties, righties,” Roberts told reporters. “I would say potentially it’s a multi-inning situation. I don’t really know the leverage, plus or minus. But he’s going to be available for whatever is asked of him.”
This transition marks a significant shift for Kershaw, who has made 451 starts out of 454 career appearances. Embracing this new role could be crucial for the Dodgers as they navigate the challenges of the NLCS.
Kershaw’s Postseason History
Clayton Kershaw’s regular-season dominance hasn’t always translated to the postseason. His career ERA jumps to 4.63 in the playoffs, a stark contrast to his stellar 2.53 regular-season ERA. This discrepancy has led to questions about his effectiveness in high-pressure October games.
In the recent NLDS against the Phillies, Kershaw’s sole appearance was forgettable, surrendering two home runs and four earned runs in the eighth inning. Roberts acknowledged Kershaw’s struggles, stating, “He just didn’t have a great slider tonight. I think Clayton pitches off his slider. When the slider’s not there… Just the command wasn’t there tonight.”
Despite these past struggles, Kershaw remains a valuable asset. His experience and leadership in the clubhouse are undeniable, and a strong performance in the NLCS could redefine his postseason narrative.
A Chance at Redemption
With his impending retirement, the 2025 postseason presents Clayton Kershaw with a final opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. Overcoming his postseason struggles and contributing meaningfully to a championship run would be a fitting end to his illustrious career.
Dodgers fans are hopeful that Kershaw can recapture his regular-season form and deliver clutch performances in the NLCS. His ability to adapt to the reliever role and provide quality innings could be a game-changer for the team.
Whether Kershaw can seize this chance at redemption remains to be seen, but the potential for a storybook ending is undoubtedly present.
Kershaw vs. the Brewers
Clayton Kershaw has had limited but recent experience against the Milwaukee Brewers. In two starts against them in July, Kershaw pitched 10.1 innings, allowing 11 hits and three earned runs. This moderate success provides a glimpse into his potential effectiveness against the Brewers in the NLCS.
The Brewers’ lineup presents a mix of left-handed and right-handed hitters, giving Roberts flexibility in deploying Kershaw. His ability to neutralize both types of hitters makes him a valuable option in various game situations.
As the Dodgers strategize for the NLCS, Kershaw’s past performance against the Brewers will undoubtedly factor into their decision-making process.
Potential Impact on Dodgers’ NLCS Hopes
Clayton Kershaw’s role as a multi-inning reliever could significantly impact the Dodgers’ chances in the NLCS. His ability to provide quality innings in crucial situations could alleviate pressure on the bullpen and give the team a strategic advantage.
If Kershaw can effectively transition to this new role, it would add another dimension to the Dodgers’ pitching staff. His experience and poise on the mound could be invaluable in close games.
Ultimately, Kershaw’s performance will be a key factor in determining the Dodgers’ success in the NLCS. His ability to adapt and contribute in this new role could be the difference between advancing to the World Series and falling short.
Conclusion
As the Dodgers embark on their NLCS journey, Clayton Kershaw’s potential role as a multi-inning reliever adds an intriguing storyline. With his impending retirement and a desire to redefine his postseason legacy, Kershaw has a unique opportunity to contribute to a championship run.
Dave Roberts’ decision to utilize Kershaw in this new role reflects a strategic shift aimed at maximizing the team’s strengths. Kershaw’s experience, leadership, and ability to handle high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset in the Dodgers’ pursuit of a World Series title.
Whether Kershaw can successfully transition to this role and deliver clutch performances remains to be seen. However, the possibility of a storybook ending to his illustrious career adds an extra layer of excitement to the Dodgers’ NLCS campaign.
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