Dodgers look to Kershaw in opener

The Los Angeles Dodgers are counting on Clayton Kershaw to shake off past playoff disappointments when they give the left-handed hurler the ball on Friday for their postseason opener against the New York Mets.

Dodgers manager Don Mattingly announced on Tuesday that Kershaw will pitch Game One of the best-of-five National League Division Series against the Mets, who will send right-hander Jacob deGrom to the mound at Dodger Stadium.

Kershaw, the reigning National League Most Valuable Player and Cy Young Award winner, led the league this season with 301 strikeouts.