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Why the Dodgers should name Clayton Kershaw their opening day starter

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Now, you could make a good argument for any of the four pitchers in the Dodgers’ current rotation to get the opening day nod, but really there should be only one choice:

Clayton Kershaw.

The Dodgers lack a proven ace, but this kid is the chosen one. He has a wealth of talent. His future is all things possible.

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So get it into his head right now: He’s the man. Make him start thinking like an ace. If you want to develop a stopper, feed the beast.

Yeah, he’s young. He went 8-8 last season. The Dodgers were still understandably protective of the number of innings he pitched.

But his ability is undeniable and he seems to have the composure to handle pressure. And though he won’t turn 22 until Friday, he’s been in the majors almost two years.

Last season the left-hander began to show the makings of possible true stardom. He struck out 185 in 171 innings pitched and finished with a sterling 2.79 ERA. He allowed three runs or less in 26 of his 30 starts.

If they stay healthy, the four current pitchers in the Dodgers’ rotation -- Chad Billingsley, Hiroki Kuroda, Vicente Padilla and Kershaw -- are all very good starters, with the potential to be much more than that.

What has been repeatedly pointed out is that the rotation lacks a true ace, the kind of guy the Phillies and Yankees can throw twice in a seven-game playoff series and stifle an opponent.

Most people believe Kershaw can become that pitcher.

So why not get it into his head that the Dodgers believe he’s that player right now? Let him feel that confidence. Let him starting thinking of himself that way.

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It’s pragmatic. There’s a slight gamble with his youth, but it’s the smart gamble. The Dodgers seem to think so, too, because he comes the closest to any starter for being on track to start the opener April 5 against Pittsburgh.

It’s an honor to be named the opening day starter. Kershaw should feel good about that, should embrace it, and then grow with it.

-- Steve Dilbeck

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