In a much-needed boost to their pitching rotation, the Los Angeles Dodgers will welcome back right-hander Tyler Glasnow and left-hander Clayton Kershaw from the injured list this week. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the news, revealing that Glasnow will start on Wednesday, while Kershaw will take the mound on Thursday, according to Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times.

For Kershaw, this return marks a significant milestone as he bounces back from the most prolonged absence of his career. The left-hander underwent surgery in November to repair the gleno-humeral ligaments and capsule of his left shoulder, a procedure that was his first-ever surgery. While the veteran pitcher has faced some health struggles in recent years, the shoulder issue had sidelined him for the majority of the 2023 season.

Despite his injury, Kershaw managed to contribute 131 2/3 innings with an impressive 2.55 earned run average last season. However, he endured a rough playoff start, lasting only one out and conceding six earned runs against the Diamondbacks. Following the surgery, Kershaw signed a two-year contract with the Dodgers in February, with the second season being a player option. The deal includes additional incentives tied to his performance and workload.

Meanwhile, Glasnow's absence was comparatively minor, as he landed on the injured list before the break due to low back tightness. With several other pitchers sidelined or facing uncertainties, the return of both Glasnow and Kershaw is crucial for the Dodgers, who have been relying on a combination of veterans and rookies to fill the rotation gaps. Prospect River Ryan is also set to join the team soon.

While these returns provide a much-needed boost, the Dodgers are still actively pursuing further rotation upgrades before the July 30 trade deadline. The team has shown interest in White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet for some time now, with recent discussions even involving acquiring outfielder Luis Robert Jr. and potentially reliever Michael Kopech. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has emphasized the team's goal of securing impact additions rather than minor upgrades.

Crochet, who boasts a 3.02 ERA and a strikeout rate of 35.2% this season, would undeniably strengthen the Dodgers' pitching staff. Robert, despite some durability concerns, has shown his potential with exceptional performances, hitting 38 home runs and stealing 20 bases in 145 games last year. Acquiring both players would require a significant trade package from the Dodgers, considering their individual trade value.

While the Dodgers are aiming high with their aspirations for a World Series title, the team is aware that their current postseason streak of 11 consecutive years does not accurately reflect their ambitious goals. Having already made several big offseason signings, the Dodgers are determined to continue bolstering their roster as they aim for a deep playoff run.

As the trade deadline approaches, negotiations and discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the Dodgers' roster for the remainder of the season. With formidable pitchers like Glasnow and Kershaw coming back, the team hopes that their return, coupled with potential trade acquisitions, will provide the added strength needed to compete at the highest level in their quest for a championship.