Clayton Kershaw Returns to Dodgers' NLDS Roster for Anticipated Postseason Role

Veteran left-handed pitcher Clayton Kershaw has been officially added to the Los Angeles Dodgers' National League Division Series roster, a move announced Saturday morning after manager Dave Roberts confirmed it Friday. Kershaw's inclusion marks his return to a postseason roster after being left off the wild-card round, the first time since his 2008 rookie season he hadn't pitched in a healthy playoff series. The Dodgers are bringing back the 18-year veteran, who posted an 11-2 record with a 3.36 ERA this season, to provide crucial left-handed pitching depth against a Philadelphia Phillies lineup featuring threats like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber. Expected to pitch out of the bullpen, Kershaw's steady presence is hoped to address the struggles of younger relief pitchers in the wild-card round. This series could potentially be Kershaw's final career postseason appearance before his anticipated retirement this offseason.