Dodgers: Constructing the ideal rotation for Los Angeles

Clayton Kershaw

In what may be the most obvious choice in history, Clayton Kershaw is the only option for the ace role in the rotation.

The Dodgers’ ace has looked great this season and has been a slave to his own expectations. Kershaw currently owns a 2.15 ERA and a 0.89 WHIP, which is great for anyone not named Clayton Kershaw. Kershaw has struggled with location (by his standards) so far this season as he owns a 62:8 strikeout to walk split. It’s ridiculous to think of these as disappointing stats; in fact, they are excellent as they come, but they are certainly not like the usual Kershaw.

Many have attributed Kershaw’s struggles to his slider. In an article from The Ringer, they statistically broke down Kershaw’s slider and his last three innings against the Rockies on Friday. They covered how he seemed to have fixed the issue with his slider and regained his old form.

This may be a small sample size, but it’s a start. It did seem like he was struggling a bit throughout the year, and his increased home run rate does draw my attention. But Kershaw will be fine. To me, I’ve always felt as if Kershaw will find his form; he’s too talented not to.

Nothing is wrong with Clayton Kershaw and Dodgers Nation should not be worried about his ability to lead this club for a second. There is no other pitcher that would even be a discussion to unseat Clayton from the top spot.