Tim Rogers
About four hours before Clayton Kershaw was to take the mound to start for the Dodgers we got some news.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed LHP Clayton Kershaw on the injured list with back stiffness and have recalled right-handed pitcher Dustin May.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 23, 2020
It was quickly announced that the number 23 prospect in baseball, Dustin May would be the Opening Day starter. This scenario has a familiar feel for some of us old Dodgers fans.
In 1981, the #Dodgers opening day starter was set to be Jerry Reuss. Instead, rookie Fernando Valenzuela took the ball and went on to win ROY and Cy Young honors in the NL.
That '81 season also featured a long layoff. It also saw the Dodgers win their 5th World Series.
— Clint Pasillas (@realFRG) July 23, 2020
We can only hope for similar success for May and the Dodgers in 2020. This gives Dustin an unexpected chance to make his mark on the rotation in this 60 game season. May still has his rookie status so this could help propel him to Rookie of the Year contention.
Go get ’em, Dustin!
