Oct 14, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Max Muncy (13) reacts after hitting a grand slam home run against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning of game three of the 2020 NLCS at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Dodgers have tapped a pitcher not named Clayton Kershaw to be their Game 7 starter, hoping he can lead them to a World Series berth.
With just one game separating them from another World Series trip, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made a decision on who will start Game 7.
According to Jon Morosi, the Dodgers will be starting Dustin May for tonight’s pivotal Game 7 against the Braves.
Clayton Kershaw could have been an option here, but having pitched in Game 4 it seemed unlikely that he’d be ready for tonight’s start. There’s also the context of the Kershaw Curse and the fact that he’d have been coming off an outing where he was shelled by the Braves.
Perhaps it’s best that the Dodgers leave him off the mound, at least to start.
Of course, this doesn’t mean we won’t see Kershaw in Game 7. While he’s not starting, it’s very possible that he comes out of the bullpen to help the Dodgers close out if needed. Ideally, Kershaw would rest and be able to start Game 1 of the World Series — should the Dodgers get that far.
As far as confidence in May, the Dodgers aren’t turning to him because he was the nearest guy to Dave Roberts. He’s only pitched 2 1/3 innings for the Dodgers in the NLCS, but he’s posted an ERA of 1.35 and has pitched phenomenally throughout the Dodgers postseason run.
It’s also a bit of baseball history. For the first time ever, rookie pitchers will be taking the mound as starters in a win-or-go-home game. Ian Anderson will be on the mound for the Braves and only one rookie will be able to say he made history in leading his team to the World Series.