PHOENIX, AZ — After missing nine games due to back inflammation, Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw returned to the mound pitching 5 2/3 innings with six strikeouts against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday.
Kershaw threw the fastball with accuracy and patience while on the mound, along with strong velocity.
“It was fun,’’ Kershaw said. “I missed it. I didn’t know how long it would take my back to get better, but it bounced back pretty quick. It felt good. It was awesome to be out there.
“There was relief, thankfulness, and just relief to get the first one behind me. I’m just thankful for the arm feeling as good as it did today.”
After a swift and controlled first inning, Kershaw felt his groove back for the rest of the game. He also received much needed run support from Mookie Betts, Cody Bellinger and Justin Turner which aided the Dodgers in the 3-0 win over the Diamondbacks.
Kershaw threw 81 pitches and 57 of those were strikes which was thoroughly impressive, especially as he retired his first 10 batters of the game.
If this is a preview of what is to come for Kershaw in the shortened season, the Dodgers have all they need to make it to the World Series and capture a championship.
