Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw might potentially return this season after a second opinion on his hip condition came back with better news than expected. The Los Angeles Times reports that manager Don Mattingly believes there's still a chance for Kershaw to return, though the current status of the left-hander is unclear.

Mattingly concedes there's something "serious" in Kershaw's hip, just not any worse than it was before.

— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) September 18, 2012

Yesterday, Kershaw was reportedly considering hip surgery. The ace's status at that time was much more bleak, as it was possible he'd even miss the start of next season. After visiting with Dr. Bryan Kelly on Tuesday, the outlook appears to be less painful for the Dodgers.

Stephen Fife will be Kershaw's replacement in the rotation. Kershaw won't throw in any bullpen sessions, according to the Times.

Kershaw currently holds a 12-9 record this season with a 2.70 ERA.

Check out more reaction on the news at True Blue LA.