Dodgers: Three Unresolved Questions Facing the Dodgers

What can the Dodgers expect from Clayton Kershaw?

Clayton Kershaw has faced multiple injuries over the last few seasons ranging from a herniated disk in his back to biceps tendonitis.  This spring he received an injection for shoulder inflammation and was shut down for a few weeks.  Kershaw is now on the comeback trail and will throw all his pitches in live batting practice to batters on Wednesday.

Kershaw will likely begin the season with a few minor league rehab starts before being activated sometime towards the middle of April.  That is my prediction for how Kershaw’s regular season begins although it could look different since he needs to approve a minor league assignment.  When he does return, what will he look like?

Kershaw’s velocity was in decline last year as he averaged 90 miles per hour on his fastball, and it’s unlikely he sees a sudden spike in velocity.  There is also a chance that his velocity could continue to decline which will certainly diminish his effectiveness.  Clayton was still a top ten starter last year but for 2019 there are a lot of questions about what the Dodgers can expect from him.