The latest Clayton Kershaw, Max Muncy injury updates.

Dodgers Clayton Kershaw pitching a baseball on left, Dodgers Max Muncy swinging a baseball bat on right. Dodger Stadium background.

The Los Angeles Dodgers continue to lead the National League West without much trouble. In fact, LA holds a comfortable 8.5-game lead as of this story’s writing. Additionally, starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw is trending in a positive direction as he hopes to return soon after undergoing offseason shoulder surgery.

Kershaw is expected to make his next rehab start on Tuesday, according to Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times. Harris also reports that manager Dave Roberts said Kershaw will make at least two more rehab starts before returning to the big league club.

For the most part, it is all promising news for Kershaw. The same cannot be said for third baseman Max Muncy. Los Angeles reportedly transferred Muncy to the 60-day injured list which means he will not be able to return until mid-July, per Harris.

Muncy is dealing with an oblique injury. His progression has been fairly slow, and the Dodgers do not want to rush him back given the potential of further injury. In the end, LA is in a great position in the standings, so they can afford to be patient when it comes to injury concerns.

Still, the Dodgers are obviously hopeful that Muncy can make a full recovery soon. He has not swung the bat well in 2024 but Muncy is still a left-handed slugger who features power and an impressive ability to get on base when he’s going right.

Clayton Kershaw, Max Muncy trending in opposite directions

Dodgers' Max Muncy, Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw.

Kershaw may be able to join the Dodgers soon barring any setbacks. There were legitimate questions about his future in MLB after he underwent offseason surgery. Three options ultimately came to fruition, as Kershaw was linked to the Dodgers and Texas Rangers in free agency while the possibility of retirement remained realistic.

Kershaw ultimately opted to stay with the only big league team he has ever known. He would love to win at least one more championship in Los Angeles before walking away from the game.

Muncy could return in mid-July. The Dodgers will closely monitor his status over the next few weeks. If Muncy is able to return, he will play a big role for the team.

The veteran third baseman has playoff experience and understands what it takes to find success in the big moments. Even when Muncy is struggling at the plate, he is always a threat to leave the yard with one swing of the bat.

Dodgers remain dangerous despite injuries

With players such as Kershaw, Muncy, and a number of other key pieces to the puzzle on the injured list, including star Mookie Betts, the Dodgers have managed to continue to play well. That is why building a deep roster is so important.

Injuries are unfortunately going to occur. But LA features enough depth to still find ways to win games. Of course, the lack of competitiveness in the NL West helps in that regard. Los Angeles is currently the only team in the division with a record of above .500.

The Dodgers understand that navigating their way through the playoffs will be the primary challenge. For now, however, Los Angeles is focused on playing well and getting healthy.