Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw works 4 innings for Triple-A Oklahoma City in 2nd rehab start

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw made his second start Friday night in his rehabilitation process to return from midseason left shoulder surgery, throwing four innings for Triple-A Oklahoma City.

The 36-year-old three-time NL Cy Young Award winner allowed six hits and three runs, all earned, with two strikeouts and no walks. He struck out 49 batters in his 67 pitches against Round Rock, Texas.

Kershaw is scheduled to pitch for the Dodgers, who lead the NL West, in 2024. He signed a one-year contract for this season, with an option for a second year.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes Kershaw will return to the team soon.

“I’m excited,” Roberts said before the Dodgers game against Boston on Friday night. “I texted him after his first one. If it goes well, there’s a real conversation that he can join us for his next rotation.”

In his first rehab start since left shoulder surgery in November, Kershaw pitched three innings for Class A Rancho Cucamonga on June 19, but was sidelined for a week with persistent muscle soreness.

The injury-plagued Dodgers could use more depth in their starting rotation, and that appears to be coming. Tyler Glasnow (back soreness) is expected to return to the starting rotation on Wednesday.