Kershaw gives Uribe confidence boost with BP homer

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Of the 40 pitches Clayton Kershaw threw in batting practice Saturday, Juan Uribe turned around one of them for a home run to center field.

"I'll have to hear about Uribe's home run all season," bemoaned the 2014 National League MVP. "I'm glad I gave him confidence for the whole year."

That's Kershaw, the former Roberto Clemente Award winner, always giving.

Kershaw, in a final tuneup for his exhibition debut as the starting pitcher Thursday against the White Sox, said he considered the two-inning outing a necessary step for Spring Training.

"I'm getting my work in and my arm in shape to throw," he said. "You never want people to get hits off you."

But Kershaw has never enjoyed facing his teammates.

"I don't hate it, but I've never been good at it," he said. "It's always tough to get the adrenaline going. It's kind of like a simulated game, but I guess it's the best way to get ready. I'm glad that one's done."

.@ClaytonKersh22 vs. @AdrianTitan23. #DodgersST pic.twitter.com/hmw1Qla9ox

- Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 28, 2015

In addition to Uribe, Kershaw faced Adrian Gonzalez and Justin Turner.