The 2024 World Series has begun, and the Los Angeles Dodgers are facing off against the New York Yankees. However, there's one notable absence from the Dodgers' lineup Clayton Kershaw. The 36 year old ace has been sidelined with a bone spur in his left big toe since August 30, and he won't be pitching in the World Series. This marks the first time in four World Series appearances that Kershaw won't start Game 1.
Kershaw's injury isn't just a blow to the Dodgers; it also highlights the changing of the guard for playoff aces. This postseason is the first without Kershaw, Zack Greinke, Max Scherzer, or Justin Verlander since 2010. A new generation of pitchers is taking over, with the likes of Hunter Greene, Paul Skenes, and Tarik Skubal leading the charge. Gerrit Cole and Zack Wheeler are serving as a bridge between eras, but it's clear that the torch is being passed.
The Impact on the Dodgers
Kershaw's absence has put a strain on the Dodgers' pitching staff. They've already used three bullpen games this postseason, with at least one more planned in the World Series. The team doesn't have a reliable No. 4 starter, and Kershaw is one of seven Dodgers starters on the injured list. The Dodgers are having to get creative with their pitching lineup, and it's unclear how effective they'll be without their ace.
The injury also raises questions about Kershaw's future with the Dodgers. He's already said he plans to play next season, but he could become a free agent and may not return to Los Angeles. The Dodgers have a crowded starting rotation, and it's unclear where Kershaw would fit in. If he does leave, it would mark the end of an era for the Dodgers and their fans.
A Generation of Aces Ages Out
Kershaw belongs to a generation of aces that has begun to age out. Chris Sale, another elite pitcher, was unable to pitch for the Braves in the NLDS due to a back issue. Justin Verlander was left off the Astros' ALDS roster entirely, and Max Scherzer's Rangers missed the postseason. Zack Greinke, who has been pitching since 2004, threw out the ceremonial first pitch in Kansas City prior to ALDS Game 4 between the Royals and Yankees. It's clear that this generation of pitchers is slowly fading away.
The New Guard
While the old guard is aging out, a new generation of pitchers is stepping up. Hunter Greene, a 24 year old pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, has already made a name for himself in the league. Paul Skenes, a 21 year old pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, has been dominating in the minor leagues. Tarik Skubal, a 27 year old pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, has been one of the most promising young pitchers in the league.
Gerrit Cole and Zack Wheeler are serving as a bridge between eras. Cole, who debuted in 2013, is still one of the top pitchers in the league, but he's getting older. Wheeler, who debuted in 2013, has been one of the most consistent pitchers in the league. However, it's clear that the torch is being passed to a new generation of pitchers.
Kershaw's Legacy
Clayton Kershaw's legacy is secure. He's a three time Cy Young Award winner and the 2014 National League MVP. He's led the Dodgers to several playoff appearances and won a World Series in 2020. However, his absence from the World Series this year highlights the changing of the guard for playoff aces.
Kershaw's injury also raises questions about his future in the league. Will he be able to come back from this injury and continue to pitch at a high level? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain the league will be different without him.
Commentaires