Saturday's two strikeouts give Kershaw 2,970 for his career. He is 30 strikeouts away from becoming 20th pitcher in the 3,000-strikeout club and only the fourth lefty, joining Hall of Famers Randy Johnson, Steve Carlton and CC Sabathia.

For Kershaw, this game was about more than just the result; it was an emotional moment: “I love being back out there, it’s a special thing.”

Clayton Kershaw lasted four innings Saturday night in his season debut for the Dodgers, allowing five runs and five hits against the Angels. He walked three, struck out two and threw 48 of 83 pitches for strikes.