Clayton Kershaw made a highly anticipated return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 25, 2024, after undergoing shoulder surgery last November. In his first regular season game since October 2023, Kershaw pitched four innings against the San Francisco Giants, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out six batters. After a shaky third inning where he allowed two runs, Kershaw rebounded by striking out three consecutive batters, showcasing flashes of his former dominance. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed his delight in Kershaw's performance, emphasizing the emotional significance of his comeback for both the player and the fans. Kershaw's return is crucial for the Dodgers, who are seeking to bolster their pitching rotation as they head into the second half of the season. He is set to pitch again against the Padres, marking a significant step in his recovery journey.