GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw has been shut down indefinitely after telling manager Dave Roberts that he didnt feel right after two discouraging outings on the mound.
Kershaw worked out indoors at Camelback Ranch on Friday, but didnt play catch. Roberts wouldnt speculate on the left-handers next bullpen session.
Just going to take a few days. Its just best if I do that, Kershaw told reporters. Im not going to get another chance to do this during the season. It feels like its a good time. Hopefully be playing catch by the first of next week.
Kershaw told Roberts he wasnt feeling right after throwing live batting practice Monday and a bullpen session on Wednesday.
Roberts was unclear as to what exactly is going on with the three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, but the manager told reporters in Arizona no one is alarmed or worried about it.
Kershaw has dealt with back injuries the last three seasons and a left shoulder injury last year.
Roberts said Kershaw could be going through a so-called dead-arm stage, which can affect pitchers in spring training.
Theres plenty of time for him to get his pens in and build up, the manager said. He holds himself to a high standard. He really wasnt pleased with how he felt. Its sort of a day-to-day thing.
Kershaw signed a $93 million, three-year contract in November and was named the opening day starter for the ninth consecutive year earlier this week. He turns 31 next month.
He had a 2.73 ERA last year.
