LOS ANGELES _ Clayton Kershaw throwing a baseball at Dodger Stadium is typically an uplifting experience for the home team, and so it was again Sunday even though he had nothing to do with a game
Manager Dave Roberts said Kershaw, sidelined since late June by a back injury, threw for the first time since a July 16 simulated game was followed by a setback.
Roberts didn't have specifics of Kershaw's stint, but took encouragement about the fact the Los Angeles Dodgers' ace has taken a big step toward a return to the rotation.
"I haven't heard how he came out of it. I'm sure there was some soreness, but it was still good to see him with a baseball in his hand," Roberts said.
After being plagued by lower-back discomfort from a herniated disk, Kershaw (11-2, 1.79 earned-run average) was sent to the 60-day disabled list.
He's sorely needed for the stretch as the Dodgers started Sunday two games behind the National League West-leading San Francisco Giants.
"Clayton's not a guy we worry about with the intensity, the intent to get back," Roberts said. "He'll be back as soon as he possibly can."
The hope, said Roberts, is for Kershaw to return in September, taking over starts from fill-ins such as Saturday spot starter Ross Stripling and Monday's starter, Julio Urias (1-2, 4.98 ERA with nine starts).
"All along _ a little bit of it was being hopeful _ we've expected him to make strides for us (returning) in September," Roberts said. "We're focused on the guys who are active ... but any time he can get back, we'll take Clayton.
"There's not going to be a (minor league) rehab situation (available). It's going to be bullpens and live (batting practices) kind of thing, and whenever he feels he's ready to go, we're going to pencil him in and get him going."
