The Dodgers kicked off their divisional series against the Padres today, but before the game, head coach Dave Roberts delivered some disappointing news. Veteran left-hander Clayton Kershaw’s injury to his left big toe has worsened, and regardless of how far the Dodgers advance in the playoffs, he will not return to the field. “We’ve closed the door on that,” Roberts stated, effectively ending Kershaw’s 2024 season.

Kershaw, who underwent shoulder surgery, only returned to the mound on July 26, appearing in just seven games. His return on August 31 was cut short after just one inning due to the toe injury, leading to a stint on the injured list. During this time, he maintained a training regimen for pitchers, hoping to make a comeback in the postseason, but his recovery did not progress well, culminating in a decision to halt training last week.

Reflecting on his situation, Kershaw admitted that he had been pushing through pain while trying to adapt his cleats to alleviate discomfort. However, those adjustments only exacerbated his condition. “Continuing to pitch has been mentally exhausting, and I’ve been feeling pain,” he shared. “I had another MRI and discovered that things had worsened. So now I have no choice; I can’t pitch. I’m really disappointed.”

Roberts noted, “Clayton has done everything he can to position himself for a chance in the playoffs, but given his current condition, that’s no longer an option.”

Kershaw’s contract includes a player option for $5 million next year, but with the possibility of undergoing another surgery on his left foot, decisions about retirement or continuing his career loom large. “My shoulder feels good, my back feels okay, but it’s been challenging to deal with all these injuries,” he said. “I still love pitching, but I need to evaluate things and have some discussions.” For now, he isn’t focused on what’s next for him. “My concentration is on beating the Padres. I’ll do everything I can to be a great cheerleader for my team.”