Dodgers injuries: Clayton Kershaw to miss playoffs, Max Muncy could return if Los Angeles advance

The Los Angeles Dodgers could be without two important players in the playoffs. Former ace Clayton Kershaw will indeed miss the playoffs, manager Dave Roberts confirmed on Tuesday, and first baseman Max Muncy could return if the club had a deep run. However, he will certainly be missing Wednesday’s NL Wild Card Game.

“I always try to keep our silver lining that he can join us later in the playoffs,” Roberts told reporters, including Bill Plunkett from Orange County Register, about Muncy’s injury. There is no ligament damage in his elbow and it does not require surgery, although the injury wastes Muncy time.

The injury occurred in the third inning of Sunday’s regular season final against the Brewers. Jace Peterson hit a back tap in front of the plate, and catcher Will Smith’s throw put Muncy’s arm in Peterson’s path, and the two collided. Muncy was clearly in pain and left the game holding his arm.

Albert Pujols replaced Muncy at first base on Sunday and is likely a candidate to start the Wild Card Game. However, Roberts said the team have yet to decide who will replace Muncy in the roster. Another contender is Matt Beaty, although Cody Bellinger looks likely to stay in midfield.

As for Kershaw, he left Friday’s start after 42 throws and 1 2/3 innings with a new discomfort in his forearm / elbow. He missed more than three months with the same injury earlier this year and only returned in September. Roberts said Kershaw had no damage to his elbow ligaments but he would not be pitching this playoff.

“[Tommy John surgery] is not on the table … Which is great news, “Roberts told reporters, including ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez. Forearm problems are a common precursor to Tommy John surgery.

Max Scherzer will start the Wild Card Game on Wednesday, then Walker Buehler and Julio Urías will start NLDS Games 1 and 2 though the Dodgers, respectively. Scherzer could return to kick off Game 3 on a normal rest, although Los Angeles would need to come up with a starter for Game 4. Tony Gonsolin is a possible candidate.

The Dodgers have gone 106-56 this season and finished with the best points differential in baseball (over-269). Unfortunately for them, they played in the same division as the Giants with 107 wins and are stuck against the Cardinals in the Wild Card Game to win or come home.