Dodgers Way Quick Hits: Buehler, Kershaw, Offense, Kemp

The Dodgers dropped the first of three games against the Rockies on Friday, June 29, with a three to one loss. Nolan Arenado, Chris Iannetta, and Pat Valaika accounted for all three of the Rockies’ runs, each on solo shots. The Dodgers lone run was scored on a Justin Turner two-out solo home run in the bottom of the ninth inning. Here is the rest of the news from that day.

Walker Buehler’s injury was bad, his first start off the DL was worse, and yesterday’s demotion to the minor leagues was the result of the two. Buehler was optioned to Single-A Rancho Cucamonga where the team hopes he can stretch himself back out as a starter in a low-stress environment. Buehler will make a few starts at Single-A before rejoining the rotation and in a way, the move benefits the team just as much as it does Buehler and his health. Buehler’s absence should allow for the team to really sort out who belongs in the rotation and who does not as well as prep for what could be a big trade deadline. Buehler will have to work hard in Rancho

More from Dodgers Way

• Kevin Kiermaier being ‘top target’ to replace Cody Bellinger is bad sign for Dodgers
• Are the Dodgers really prepared to hand Shohei Ohtani a blank check?
• Dodgers fans shouldn’t dismiss interest in Dansby Swanson for this reason
• Giants laughably sign pitcher that Dodgers absolutely own
• Dave Roberts’ quote about Padres in NLDS should motivate Dodgers

Cucamonga to return in the near future but with a player of his caliber, the team can and will take its time with the super-talented pitcher. JT Chargois will take his roster spot.

Other notes…

• Clayton Kershaw received significantly better news than his teammate, Walker Buehler did on Friday, June 29. Dave Roberts shared that the 30-year old ace, who has also dealt with a slew of injuries this year, would make a start on Tuesday, July third, against the Pirates. Kershaw has been impressive since returning from the disabled list two weeks ago but Dave Roberts and the front office’s pitch limits have put a cap on the success he can have in a game. There was no mention of his limitations on Tuesday and until there are, it is safe to assume that the rains will be loosened a bit for the appearance.

• The Dodgers’ offense completed its magical run to history on June 29 with the 54th home run of the month. Justin Turner’s solo shot in the ninth inning against the Rockies was the record-breaking blast and it was just a culmination of a real turn-around for the Dodgers and a reward for their hard work in the month of June. The original record stood at 53 homers and was set last year in the same month.

Next: Dodgers: Manny Machado is Not What the Dodgers Need

• Matt Kemp is continuing a strong push to be an All-Star starter and he needs your help to get there. To vote for Kemp, click here.