Dodgers News: Dave Roberts Plans on Taking it Easier with Clayton Kershaw for Now

He wants to ensure his ace stays healthy the rest of this year.

Clayton Kershaw made his long-awaited return to the Dodgers on Thursday, and it went even better than expected.

Kershaw threw a dominant five innings, allowing just one run on a mistake pitch to Elehuris Montero. Aside from that one solo home run, Kershaw was nearly perfect, allowing just three hits while walking none and striking out four.

The Dodgers ace only threw 67 pitches as Dodgers manager Dave Roberts tries to ease him back into play, and he admitted it wasn't easy watching his left-hander out on the mound after a six-week absence.

"I’m not gonna lie," Roberts said. "I was holding my breath a little bit through the entire outing, but it was fantastic."

Via Dodger Insider

Since Kershaw was dealing with a pretty weird shoulder issue, Roberts wants to be extra careful as he brings him back for the stretch run of the postseason.

"Just got to make sure that he takes the ball every fifth or sixth day," Roberts said. "For him, my thought is just go out there and be yourself and you don’t have to do it on your own, and today he sort of did for five innings. We scored late, and it was a good day all around."

Via Dodger Insider

Don't be surprised to see the Dodgers have Kershaw pitch every six days, as they try to slowly work him back into game action ahead of the posteason.

The most important thing for the Dodgers right now is having their ace healthy in October, so they're going to do whatever it takes to make that a reality.