Kershaw to start Game 4 on short rest
The Los Angeles Dodgers are turning to their ace and reigning MVP when it matters most.
Clayton Kershaw will start Game 4 of the Dodgers' National League Division Series against the Mets on three days' rest, the team revealed prior to Game 3 in New York.
Kershaw, last year's NL MVP and Cy Young winner, was chosen over left-hander Alex Wood, and will pitch opposite rookie Steven Matz in Tuesday's decisive game.
Kershaw, who owns a career 4.99 ERA in 12 playoff appearances, started the series opener last Friday and lasted 6 2/3 innings. He struck out 11 and allowed just four hits, but gave up a home run to Daniel Murphy and was beaten 3-1 by Jacob deGrom and the Mets.
Despite his postseason struggles, Kershaw was his usual dominant self this season.
The Cy Young candidate went 16-7 with a 2.13 ERA this season, going 11-1 with a 1.22 ERA and four complete games - three of them shutouts - in his final 17 starts. He struck out 301 batters, the first major-league pitcher in 13 years to reach 300.
- With files from The Associated Press