Even though it makes a lot of sense, it's still hard to believe the Los Angeles Dodgers actually did this.
Clayton Kershaw is one of the greatest left-handed pitchers in the history of baseball, but when the playoffs commence, Kershaw won't be taking part.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters on Sunday that Kershaw won't be on the Wild Card Round roster. If L.A. advances, that can be changed.
Kershaw is starting the Dodgers' regular season finale Sunday, which factors into the choice given the timing of things.
But clearly, if L.A. wanted Kershaw on the opening round roster, the schedule would be set up so that Kershaw would be available.
It makes sense on paper, of course.
The Dodgers have four starting pitchers they can believe in more than Kershaw at this stage of his career.
And it doesn't make a lot of sense to have Kershaw coming out of the bullpen.
So when the playoffs commence, Kershaw will be a veteran presence but no more than that. It could be an odd ending to his Dodgers career, given that he's already announced this will be his final season. Hopefully, Kershaw gets back on a mound in Dodgers blue at least once in the playoffs.
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