Dodgers won’t say whether Clayton Kershaw could pitch in relief in Game 5

Asked whether Clayton Kershaw would be available to pitch in relief for the Dodgers in Game 5 of their National League division series against the New York Mets, Manager Don Mattingly was evasive Thursday afternoon.

“He’s here,” Mattingly said. “I’m not sure what we’ll do with him.”

Mets Manager Terry Collins said starting pitchers Noah Syndergaard and Matt Harvey could pitch out of the bullpen. Syndergaard started Game 2 and Harvey started Game 3.

Kershaw pitched Game 1 for the Dodgers and returned to pitch Game 4 on short rest.

Mattingly acknowledged management had spoken to Kershaw about the possibility of pitching Thursday, but wouldn’t divulge what was said.

“Obviously, the hesitation is health,” Mattingly said. “He just pitched on short rest and he’s had a day off.

“I think that’s always your main concern with guys, health and what’s right and what’s fair,” Mattingly said. “Even though the moment is huge, what is right?”

Kershaw’s longtime catcher, A.J. Ellis, said the three-time Cy Young Award winner would want to pitch if presented with the opportunity.

“I’m surprised Clayton didn’t come in and try to start today,” Ellis joked. “It’s Game 5. It’s all hands on deck. Everybody needs to be spiked up and ready to go because there’s no excuses. You can’t have any regrets and what-ifs.”

However, Ellis was certain the Dodgers would exercise caution with their franchise cornerstone.

“They’re going to take care of him,” Ellis said. “They’re going to make sure it’s the right spot if they do need to use him.”