WASHINGTON (AP) - The Los Angeles Dodgers optioned struggling pitcher Clayton Kershaw to Triple-A Las Vegas after the left-hander allowed five early runs in an 11-2 loss to the Washington Nationals on Thursday night.
Kershaw, the Dodgers' first-round draft pick in 2006, allowed all five runs - including a pair of homers - in the first and was lifted after 2 2-3 innings. He was 2-5 with a 4.56 ERA with the Dodgers, but 0-2 in his last four starts.The slumping Dodgers recalled left-hander Scott Elbert from Double-A Jacksonville, where he was 4-1 with a 2.40 ERA.
Before the game, the Dodgers reinstated right-handed relief pitcher Cory Wade from the 15-day disabled list and designated reliever Tanyon Sturtze for assignment.
Wade had been on the disabled list since Aug. 9 with inflammation in his right shoulder. He is 2-1 with a 2.56 ERA in 52 2-3 innings.
The Dodgers had purchased Sturtze's contract from Triple-A Las Vegas on Aug. 14. The right-hander had given up one hit and no runs in 2 1-3 innings over three appearances, and did not earn a decision.
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