### Dodgers Shut Down Clayton Kershaw for Postseason Due to Toe Injury

LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially ruled out Clayton Kershaw for any postseason appearances this year due to a persistent toe injury. This announcement came from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts just before the team began their National League Division Series (NLDS) against the San Diego Padres.

Kershaw, who underwent shoulder surgery during the last offseason, made a late start to the 2024 season, debuting on July 25. His season came to an abrupt halt on August 30 when he had to leave the game in the second inning due to pain, which was later identified as a bone spur in his left big toe. Despite ongoing efforts to maintain arm activity and adjust his spikes to alleviate the pain, Kershaw's condition has worsened, affecting other parts of his body.

"Clayton has done everything to stay in shape and be ready for the postseason," Roberts stated. "But physically, the foot, the toe just isn't cooperating and is actually getting worse. So this is it for Clayton in 2024."

With Kershaw unavailable, the Dodgers have named Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Jack Flaherty, Walker Buehler, and Landon Knack as their starting pitchers for the NLDS. Yamamoto and Flaherty will start the first two games, respectively. A surprising inclusion in the roster is rookie right-hander Edgardo Henriquez, known for his triple-digit fastball, who replaced the more experienced Joe Kelly. Roberts explained that Kelly suffered a shoulder injury during a simulated game, similar to an earlier injury sustained by Brusdar Graterol, which opened a spot for Michael Grove.

Kelly’s injury means he will not be available for the NL Championship Series either, with his only potential return being if the Dodgers advance to the World Series.

Additionally, the Dodgers are uncertain about the availability of Freddie Freeman, who sprained his right ankle on September 26. Although Freeman showed confidence after a workout on Thursday, his status for Game 1 remains questionable. Should Freeman be sidelined, the team plans to move Max Muncy to first base and place Enrique Hernandez at third base to face Padres right-hander Dylan Cease.

"I'm still hopeful," Roberts remarked about Freeman. "Maybe not as hopeful as I was yesterday."