In exciting news for Los Angeles Dodgers fans, veteran left-hander Clayton Kershaw is on track to make his 2024 debut after a successful rehab start at the Triple-A level. Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Kershaw pitched three innings without giving up a hit, striking out five batters and walking just one. Building on this strong outing, Kershaw is scheduled for a four-to-five inning start on Friday. If all goes well, he could then make his return to the big leagues.

Kershaw's comeback is particularly remarkable considering he had to be shut down from his rehab just three weeks ago due to lingering shoulder soreness. However, last night's start showed promising signs that the soreness has completely dissipated. The Dodgers' struggling rotation mix will greatly benefit from Kershaw's return, as they have called up right-handed prospect River Ryan only 16 1/3 innings into his Triple-A season.

With Kershaw and Ryan expected to join the rotation, the Dodgers are hopeful that they can provide much-needed support alongside veterans James Paxton and rookies Gavin Stone, Landon Knack, and Justin Wrobleski. The return of ace righty Tyler Glasnow from the injured list is also eagerly awaited. Additionally, Walker Buehler and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, currently on the injured list, are expected to come back at some point this season. Despite the thinner rotation mix, youngster Bobby Miller was recently sent down to Triple-A due to his struggling performance.

In another boost to the team, outfielder Jason Heyward is set to return to action after the All-Star break, according to Roberts. Heyward, who will not require a rehab assignment, will add depth to the Dodgers' outfield mix. While his performance this year has taken a step back compared to his impressive 2023 season, Heyward has still been roughly league average at the plate. His return will provide relief for the Dodgers, as youngster James Outman has struggled to reclaim a regular role in the outfield.

However, Heyward isn't the only one making progress towards a return. Superstar Mookie Betts, who fractured his left hand in mid-June, has started fielding grounders as part of his rehabilitation. Although his expected recovery time is 6-8 weeks, Betts might return sometime in August. Prior to his injury, Betts was having an MVP-caliber season with an astounding slash line of .304/.405/.488 in 72 games. His return will boost the team's offense, and manager Roberts noted that Betts is "excited" about his progress.

It remains to be seen how the lineup will be adjusted upon Betts' return, as Miguel Rojas has performed well in an expanded role since Betts went on the shelf. Nevertheless, the impending returns of Kershaw, Heyward, and Betts are undoubtedly exciting news for the Dodgers as they look to strengthen their roster and make a strong push in the second half of the season.