Los Angeles Dodgers look to Kershaw in playoff opener (AFP)

The Los Angeles Dodgers are counting on Clayton Kershaw to shake off past playoff disappointments when they give the left-handed hurler the ball Friday for their post-season 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.