Freddie Freeman has endured the most frustrating year in his time with the Dodgers, although a .303 batting average would say otherwise. Freeman began the year leading the National League with a .374 batting average after May 31.

Clayton Kershaw pitches into the sixth inning to win his fourth game in August and help the Dodgers salvage a split as they head to San Diego for another NL West showdown with the Padres.

That’s how it’s been almost his entire 18-year career, and that’s how it was Thursday afternoon in Colorado’s 9-5 loss. Kershaw gave up three earned runs in 5 2/3 innings, earning his 29th career win vs. the Rockies — his most against any opponent — in 52 starts. He has only pitched more games and innings against the Giants.