RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. -- Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Sunday that the plan is for Clayton Kershaw to return to the big league rotation Friday against the Marlins.
Kershaw made his return to the mound Saturday night at LoanMart Field starting for the Los Angeles Dodgers' Class A affiliate.
Kershaw struck out five batters in three innings for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, allowing one hit and no runs on 34 pitches, including 23 strikes.
After the outing, Kershaw talked about the recovery for his back, which has forced him to sit out since June 26 because of a herniated disc.
"Once I cool down and sit for a bit, it will stiffen up. As long as I'm OK doing that tonight, it will be a good test and I should be good to go for my next one."
Kershaw said he was using all his pitches.
"The fastball and slider were pretty decent, but the curveball needed some work. I threw a couple of good ones but it got away from me. As much time as I've missed, I'll take it.
"Once you get up to pitching real games in the major leagues, there's not going to be as much forgiveness."
