Dodgers' GM gives updates on injured stars Freddie Freeman and Clayton Kershaw; reveals NLDS starting rotation for first two games

After finishing the season as the top NL seed, the Los Angeles Dodgers are waiting to see who they'll face in the National League Divisional Series. Los Angeles plays the winner of the Wild Card showdown between the Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres. While LAD fans are excited for their team to begin its playoff journey, a little time off could help the club.

On Wednesday, Los Angeles Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes provided a health update for some of his team's stars. According to MLB insider Fabian Ardaya, Gomes mentioned Clayton Kershaw and Freddie Freeman. The update was mixed. Freeman has progressed after spraining his ankle at the end of the regular season.

Gomes said that Freddie Freeman is facing live pitching as he looks to make a lineup return. Although an X-ray of his injury came back negative, the first baseman found himself in a boot and on crutches. Even if Freeman makes it back in time for the NLDS, he will likely not be 100% and may be limited defensively.

Unlike Freeman, Clayton Kershaw's playoff outlook is less optimistic. According to Gomes, the future Hall of Famer isn't close to facing live batters. The Los Angeles Dodgers' pitching staff has several health issues, and it appears Kershaw will be sidelined indefinitely after suffering a bone spur in his left big toe.

Kershaw's postseason struggles are well-documented. However, given the number of injuries to the Dodgers' pitching staff, having Kershaw available, even out of the bullpen, is better than not having him at all.

Brandon Gomes also announced the Dodgers' plans for Games 1 and 2 of the NLDS

Although his roster availability remains unclear, Gomes announced his pitching plans for the first two games of the NLDS. The Los Angeles GM said that Jack Flaherty, acquired from the Detroit Tigers at the trade deadline, should start Game 1.

Star rookie Yoshinobu Yamamoto is slated to start the second game of the series. After a strong rookie campaign, the high-profile free agent will make his MLB postseason debut. If the series extends, it will be interesting to see how the team approaches the next games.