The 2024 season did not go as Clayton Kershaw planned on an individual level when he re-signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year.
Kershaw at the time was recovering from left shoulder surgery and in a break from prior offseasons, inked a new contract that extended beyond a one-year deal. That was in the form of a player option for 2025, suggesting Kershaw was looking to extend his career beyond this season.
Monday was the deadline for Kershaw to make a decision on his contract option, which was declined. The decision made him a free agent for the fourth consecutive year.
Prior to formally opting out, Kershaw appeared on “MLB Tonight” and made it clear his entire career is going to be spent only with the Dodgers:
“I always thought we’ll just see what happens, and every year it just so happens that this is the best place for me. Now thinking about it, there’s no other place I’m going to play.
“I don’t know how much longer I’ve got, but I don’t see myself ever wearing another uniform. I probably shouldn’t say that. There’s not a lot of leverage with that, but at the same time, I don’t care anymore. I’m a Dodger, and that means the world to me.”
Kershaw’s comments came shortly after he ended his speech during the Dodgers’ World Series celebration at Dodger Stadium by shouting, “I love you guys. Thank you. Dodger for life!”
The 36-year-old made just seven starts this season because his 2024 debut was delayed by shoulder surgery and the year wound up being cut short by a bone spur in his left big toe.
Kershaw is having surgery Wednesday to address the bone spur in his toe, along with arthritis and a ruptured plantar in his left foot. He also is scheduled to undergo surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee.
Kershaw has not shared a timeline for his return but presumably won’t be ready for Opening Day of the 2025 season.
Clayton Kershaw’s career with Dodgers
The Dodgers drafted Kershaw in the first round in 2006 with the seventh overall pick.
The left-hander made his MLB debut against the St. Louis Cardinals on May 25, 2008, and went on to become one of the best pitchers of his generation
Kershaw set a Dodgers franchise record with this year by becoming their first pitcher to play in 17 seasons. He’ll extend that mark next season and also look to reach 3,000 career strikeouts.
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