By Jon Weisman
For the fourth time in the past five seasons, Clayton Kershaw has been named National League Pitcher of the Month for July.
Kershaw won the award even though his eight shutout innings on Saturday, July 32 weren’t counted. In the 31 previous days, the 27-year-old lefty pitched 33 innings and allowed one run for a 0.27 ERA (1.31 xFIP), walking two and striking out 45.
It was not an easy month to win the award. Among the competition was teammate Zack Greinke (38 innings, 0.95 ERA, 2.89 xFIP) and Chicago Cubs pitchers Jon Lester (43 1/3 innings, 1.66 ERA, 2.31 xFIP) and Jake Arrieta (42 2/3 innings, 1.90 ERA, 2.56 xFIP).
Kershaw previously won the July honor in 2011, 2013 and 2014. He also won the award for June 2014, becoming the first Dodger to be so honored in two consecutive months since Burt Hooton in 1975.
Since May 26, Clayton Kershaw is batting .194, and the 329 batters he has faced are batting .162.
— Dodger Insider (@DodgerInsider) August 3, 2015
oldbrooklynfan
It’s great to see Kershaw back to himself after having, for him, a relatively slow start.
winnipegdave
Makes you wonder how much of a slacker he was in July of 2012. Looks like he gave up 16 earned runs over 45 innings (3.20 era) and had 40 strikeouts.
Mark Hagerstrom
Way to call him out Dave. ;) (Bob Hendley)