Clayton Kershaw controls in preliminary playoff getaway as a Cy Younger winner
The Dodgers’ Postseason Journey: A Recall on the 2013 NLDS Against the Braves
In a interval famous by the introduction of Yasiel Puig and Zack Greinke, the Los Angeles Dodgers returned to the postseason in 2013 after a four-year lack. They encountered a strong problem towards the 96 -win Atlanta Braves, who flaunted playoff expertise but lacked the Dodgers’ high-caliber starting throwing.
Under the administration of Brian Cox, the Braves had truly made the postseason for 3 of the final 4 years, offering a well-shaped lineup led by celebrities like Freddie Freeman and Jason Heyward. However, the Dodgers’ toughness stocked their well-known pitching trio: Clayton Kershaw, Greinke, and Hyun Jin-Ryu. This deepness provided Los Angeles an important benefit, particularly with Kershaw reaching the optimum of his powers.
In Video matchup 1 of the National Organization Division Collection (NLDS), Kershaw showcased his sparkle, dominating when driving with an astonishing 124 pitches. He began out each Heyward and Freeman within the opening framework, making use of a strong slider and his fastball, which nonetheless obtained to 95 mph– a velocity he would afterward adapt as his profession superior.
The Dodgers quickly established management, racking up 5 runs between the 2nd and 4th innings. Kershaw’s display unquestionably sealed his dominance, as he began out 12 batters– his occupation playoff excessive for quite a few years until surpassed in 2020 He encountered problem when the Braves intimidated to claw again into the matchup, however he as soon as once more rely on his slider, retiring Andrelton Simmons and stopping the rally.
Regardless of Kershaw’s courageous initiatives, the Dodgers have been required to name on him as soon as once more in Game 4 on brief relaxation, a development that got here to be frequent throughout his prime. Kershaw delivered a further sturdy effectivity, allowing 2 unearned runs over six innings, paving the way in which for a pivotal crowning achievement from Juan Uribe that finally clinched the victory for Los Angeles.
The Dodgers’ journey within the 2013 postseason was commendable, main them to the NL Champion Collection the place they inevitably fell brief. However, Kershaw’s funds have been vital, highlighting his responsibility as an ace throughout this necessary stretch of the Dodgers’ franchise enterprise background.
In retrospective analysis, the 2013 postseason famous the start of Kershaw’s heritage as one of many video matchup’s premier bottles, making ready for the Dodgers’ future success and establishing their monitor file as perennial opponents. As the group goals for continued postseason success, the initiatives and performances from that yr act as a sworn statement to each Kershaw’s talent and the development of the Dodgers’ roster all through the years.
