Kershaw NLDS struggle as Dodgers lose Game 3 to Phillies

Kershaw NLDS struggle continues as the Dodgers lose Game 3 to the Phillies. The veteran lefty falters in relief, keeping the series alive for Philadelphia. LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Dodgers’ bid to sweep the Philadelphia Phillies hit a major snag Wednesday night as veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw was roughed up in relief, leading to an 8–2 loss in Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS).

Despite holding a two-run deficit entering the eighth inning, manager Dave Roberts turned to the retiring future Hall of Famer in hopes of stabilizing the game. Instead, the inning spiraled out of control and the Phillies roared back to keep their postseason alive.

Kershaw’s Tough Return to October Relief

With left-handed reliever Tanner Scott unavailable due to personal reasons and other bullpen arms already spent, Roberts made a bold choice to call on Kershaw, who hadn’t pitched in relief since the fateful 2019 NLDS against Washington.

At first, it looked promising. Kershaw worked his way out of a jam in the seventh inning, giving the Dodger Stadium crowd reason to believe in another vintage moment. But the magic quickly disappeared when J.T. Realmuto crushed a leadoff home run in the eighth, opening the floodgates for Philadelphia’s six-run explosion.

Kershaw ultimately faced nine batters in the inning, allowing multiple hits and walks while struggling to find command. “I just didn’t make enough good pitches,” Kershaw admitted postgame. “It’s hard when you’re trying to throw strikes instead of getting people out.”

Phillies Capitalize to Stay Alive

After Realmuto’s blast, Max Kepler drew a walk and Max Muncy’s error at third base extended the inning. Trea Turner followed with a two-run single before Kyle Schwarber delivered the knockout punch — a towering two-run homer that nearly cleared the stadium roof.

Only a few defensive gems, including a diving catch by Teoscar Hernández and a leaping grab by Justin Dean, prevented the inning from being even worse.

Phillies hitters thrived on Kershaw’s fastball and lack of command, proving once again that momentum in October can shift in an instant.

Dodgers’ Bullpen Problems Exposed

Kershaw’s difficult outing was also a symptom of a deeper issue: the Dodgers’ bullpen depth. The team ranked 21st in MLB bullpen ERA during the regular season and has lacked consistent reliability in the postseason.

Roberts’ options were limited — Emmet Sheehan and Roki Sasaki have restrictions on consecutive-day use, while Tyler Glasnow was unavailable as the Game 4 starter. That left Kershaw and a few tired relievers to shoulder the burden.

“We didn’t have many options tonight,” Roberts explained. “Kershaw wanted the ball, and we trusted him. Unfortunately, it just didn’t go our way.”

Teammates Stand Behind the Legend

While the loss stung, the Dodgers’ clubhouse stood firmly behind their veteran ace. Shortstop Mookie Betts reminded fans of Kershaw’s legacy, saying,

“He’s going to have a statue in front of Dodger Stadium one day. You can’t let two bad innings define one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history.”

Kershaw, who plans to retire at season’s end, is expected to remain a key emotional leader as the Dodgers attempt to close out the series in Game 4.

Looking Ahead: Dodgers Still Lead the Series 2–1

Despite the Game 3 setback, the Dodgers still hold a 2–1 series lead and can clinch the NLDS with a win on Thursday. Tyler Glasnow will take the mound, while the Phillies look to ride their newfound momentum and force a decisive Game 5.

As Kershaw’s legendary career nears its conclusion, Game 3 serves as both a reminder of his enduring competitiveness and the cruel unpredictability of October baseball.