What It Means:

Kershaw pitched just five innings on Thursday -- his first start after a DL stint for a biceps injury -- before exiting with a lower back strain. The Dodgers' ace has dealt with back issues the last two seasons as well, with Kershaw missing five weeks in 2017 with a similar strain. No word if this injury is as severe but don't expect to see the pitcher for the next few weeks.

Kershaw has posted a 2.76 ERA and 1.12 WHIP with 53 strikeouts in 49 innings pitched this season.