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.”

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.

In his first Dodgers start since last August, Kershaw’s shaky opening gave way to flashes of the pitcher he’s always been, in a game that reminded everyone what he still means to the franchise.