Could Dodgers use Clayton Kershaw out of bullpen in Game 5?

Of course they could. That’s not the same as saying they will, but why not?

Clayton Kershaw threw 94 pitches Tuesday in New York. They can’t go to him for an inning two days later?

Manager Don Mattingly was asked after Kershaw’s effort at Citi Field on Tuesday if the three-time Cy Young Award winner would be available out of the bullpen Thursday.

“I don’t know,” Mattingly said. “He’ll probably want to, but I haven’t really thought of that scenario. But since the Mets might be listening, yes, he could pitch.”

Mets Manager Terry Collins said Wednesday back at Dodger Stadium that starters Noah Syndergaard and Matt Harvey would be available in the New York bullpen.

“This is one of those games where you’re in a situation where everybody’s available,” Collins said. “You’re looking at Noah’s going to be down there tomorrow, Matt, if we need him, they’ll all be there.”

As they should. The season is on the line. Of course, Syndergaard hasn’t pitched since Saturday and Harvey went Monday. Kershaw would have only one day between appearances.

But it’s not like he has to go five innings. The Dodgers’ bullpen has been a roll of the dice going into the ninth all season. If Zack Greinke only goes six or seven, the Dodgers can’t turn to Kershaw?

When the Dodgers and Mets played in the National League Championship Series in 1988, Orel Hershiser threw seven innings in Game 3 and then came back the next night in Game 4 to earn the save in the 12th. He only faced one batter, but he was there.

Would it really place Kershaw’s career in jeopardy to throw an inning? In a win-or-go-home game? Hard to believe he would not be up for it. The Dodgers should be too.