LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially closed the door on Clayton Kershaw's hopes of returning this postseason due to ongoing issues with his toe injury.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced on Saturday, just before the start of Game 1 of the National League Division Series, that Kershaw will not participate in the playoffs, marking a significant loss for a team with championship aspirations.

Kershaw's season has been tumultuous. After undergoing shoulder surgery last offseason, he made a delayed debut on July 25. However, his journey took another hit when he exited an August 30 game early due to what was later diagnosed as a bone spur in his left big toe.

Despite his efforts to stay fit — including adjusting his footwear and keeping his arm active — Kershaw struggled to find relief, as compensating for the pain led to additional discomfort elsewhere in his body.

“Clayton has done everything he can to keep this thing moving forward,” Roberts commented. “But where he's at right now, physically, the foot, the toe just is not cooperating. It's actually getting worse.” Sadly for the Dodgers, Kershaw's planned comeback is now firmly off the table for the 2024 season.

With Kershaw sidelined, the Dodgers will rely on a rotation that includes Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Jack Flaherty, Walker Buehler, and Landon Knack for their upcoming matchup against the San Diego Padres.

Interestingly, rookie right-hander Edgardo Henriquez has made the cut for the roster despite his limited experience in the majors, being chosen over veteran Joe Kelly, who recently sustained a shoulder injury that mirrors that of fellow pitcher Brusdar Graterol. This injury shuffle opens up an opportunity for Michael Grove to step into the spotlight.

As if the Kershaw news wasn't enough, the team faced more uncertainty as they prepared for the postseason.

Freddie Freeman's status was in doubt following an ankle sprain sustained on September 26. Although he participated in a workout that sparked optimism about his availability for Game 1, subsequent developments have left the Dodgers uncertain.

Should Freeman be unable to play, Max Muncy would likely shift to first base, while Enrique Hernandez is poised to step in at third against Padres right-hander Dylan Cease.

The impact of Kershaw's absence cannot be overstated; he has been a cornerstone of the Dodgers' pitching staff for years.

Dodgers fans are now left wondering whether the team can rally without their ace and how far they can advance in the postseason without him.

As the Dodgers gear up for the challenge ahead, all eyes will be on their pitching depth and the health of their star players. Can they rise to the occasion and overcome the odds? Only time will tell!