WASHINGTON -- The Dodgers were hoping Clayton Kershaw's injured back would heal in time for him to start Thursday against the Nationals. Instead, the ace is back in Los Angeles resting after suffering a setback following his bullpen session Saturday.
"I don't know if it's a step back, but we're going to let the back pain subside and see where we go," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. "So as far as his return, uncertain."
Kershaw, who has been on the disabled list since July 1, retroactive to June 27, with a mild disk herniation, leads the Majors in ERA (1.79), WHIP (0.727) and K/BB rate (16.11). The ace left-hander has not pitched since June 26. Roberts said Kershaw's back flared up after he threw Saturday and that the team will exercise caution in readying him to return.
Julio Urías, the Dodgers' No. 1 prospect and the second-ranked prospect in all of baseball, according to MLBPipeline.com, will be recalled from Triple-A to start Thursday against the National League East-leading Nationals.

The 19-year-old Urias made eight starts for the Dodgers before the All-Star break, posting a 4.95 ERA. The rookie left-hander struck out 44 in only 36 1/3 innings, but struggled with his command. He pitched only one inning for Triple-A Oklahoma City after being demoted July 4.