"I wanted to... be one of the best 5 guys" - Clayton Kershaw shares heartfelt words ahead of highly anticipated return from injury

The Los Angeles Dodgers are expected to have veteran ace Clayton Kershaw return to the team against the San Francisco Giants on Thursday. The Southpaw missed all of the 2024 season so far due to a shoulder injury. According to Los Angeles Times' Jack Harris, the pitcher shared an encouraging message ahead of his return to the lineup:

"I never expected just to come back and not make a difference [...] I’m here to contribute, to be part of something special, and to be one of the best five guys we have," Kershaw said.

The Dodgers are currently eight and a half games ahead of the San Diego Padres in the National League West standings, so Kershaw’s return could not have come at a better time for the club. Despite their strong position, thanks in part to their offensive prowess, the Dodgers' starting rotation took a hit due to injuries. Kershaw‘s return is expected to provide stability and experience to an already talent-heavy team.

Tyler Glasnow, who also recently returned from injury, and Gavin Stone, who boasts a 3.19 ERA in 19 starts, have been instrumental in getting the Dodgers where they are this season. However, key pitchers like Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Walker Buehler remain on the injured list, and the recent release of James Paxton only makes Kershaw’s return even more crucial.

According to reports, Kershaw’s expectations are as high as ever. Despite dealing with multiple injuries last season, he made 22 starts and posted an impressive 2.46 ERA.

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Dodgers might see a boost to their pitching now that Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw are back

MLB: Milwaukee Brewers at Los Angeles Dodgers (Image Source: IMAGN)

Along with Clayton Kershaw's return, the Dodgers are also getting Tyler Glasnow back, another key pitcher recovering from injury. Glasnow, who joined the team before the 2024 season, was placed on the 15-day injured list on July 9. He is also expected to start against the San Francisco Giants.

The Dodgers seem to have their pitching in control for the remainder of the season. If they can manage to keep a healthy rotation and a mix of experience and young talent, with more players returning from injury, they could be a team to keep an eye on as they push for a deep playoff run.