Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw: Thinks he's ready to face live hitters

Kershaw (back) threw another bullpen session Tuesday and said it went well, J.P. Hoornstra of the Southern California News Group reports.

Analysis:

With another successful bullpen session under his belt, Kershaw has deemed himself ready for the next step, although he admitted he's uncertain if that next step will be another extended bullpen or live batting practice. Regardless, Kershaw thinks he will ultimately need at least one minor league rehab start to prepare for a return to the major league rotation. If he is cleared to face live hitters by the end of this week, it's possible he could make that rehab start during the first week of September.