We almost witnessed history on Tuesday at Target Field as Los Angeles Dodgers lefty Clayton Kershaw made his first start of the year against the Minnesota Twins. The veteran was absolutely dealing, throwing seven innings of flawless baseball while striking out 13 batters. The perfect game was intact, but Dave Roberts made the controversial decision to yank Kershaw and go to his bullpen.

There has been serious backlash from both sides after Roberts did such a thing. But, he did make the right call. Here’s why.

There’s a whole season ahead

We have to remember, this was literally Kershaw’s first outing of 2022. He was initially supposed to pitch in the opening series against the Colorado Rockies but for some reason, he was pushed back to Tuesday. It’s not known if it’s injury-related but you’d have to believe there was something going on. Nonetheless, Clayton Kershaw came out and dealt. But, there are over 150 games left in the year and approximately 25-30 more starts for him if he stays healthy.

Sure, Roberts leaving Kershaw in and giving him the chance to throw the first perfect game since Felix Hernandez in 2012 would be amazing and a treat for all baseball fans, but the Dodgers manager is strictly doing what’s best for his ballclub so they can chase a World Series title.