No timetable has been set for his return to a major-league mound, but Dodgers manager Don Mattingly confirmed that Kershaw will need at least two rehab starts total. He’s expected to throw approximately 55 pitches Friday — not much more than he threw in a three-inning simulated game Sunday at Dodger Stadium.
“He came out of the bullpen good yesterday and we feel like we’re ready,” Mattingly said. “I don’t think anyone’s going to let him go out, even throw that sim game, if we weren’t allowing him just to go pitch.”
Kershaw hasn’t any setbacks in his recovery from a strained teres major muscle in his upper left back since he first threw off a mound 10 days ago.
In case you were wondering, tickets for the game are sold out except on the secondary market (links at the right). Dodgers prospect Julio Urias, 17, is expected to pitch after Kershaw. A Brian Wilson “bobble-beard” giveaway will take place that night.