The Los Angeles Dodgers made their re-signing of Clayton Kershaw official on Thursday, welcoming him back for his 18th season with the historic franchise.
Kershaw’s new deal was announced as a one-year contract with a base salary of $7.5 million. However, there are incentives in his contract that can increase the total value.
Kershaw’s contract includes bonuses for games started and total days spent on the active roster, which could bring the deal to $16 million if all are met, according to Robert Murray of FanSided.
Breakdown of Clayton Kershaw’s contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, sources say: one-year, $7.5 million.
The deal includes $1 million each for 13, 14, 15, 16 games started. It also includes $2.5 million for 30 days on active roster, $1 million for 60 days on active roster,…
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) February 13, 2025
Kershaw only made seven starts last year, tallying a 4.50 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP. His 2024 season was delayed because of left shoulder surgery during the winter prior, and it ended early due to a left toe injury.
Coming off offseason surgeries to both his left knee and foot, Kershaw has a few hurdles to get over before he’s a stable piece to the starting rotation. The Dodgers hedging their bet with his health give reason to the contract incentives, but if all are met, Kershaw will be paid market value.
Kershaw won’t have to push himself into action with a starting rotation loaded with top options, but the Dodgers are better for having the surefire Hall of Famer back with the team.
Clayton Kershaw kept World Series celebration word
In the time following the 2024 World Series, the Dodgers celebrated their win with a parade through downtown Los Angeles before eventually winding up at Dodger Stadium.
Amid all that was a speech from Kershaw, who thanked the fans and exclaimed his love for the organization. At the very end, Kershaw screamed, “Dodger for life,” ending speculation that he would ever leave the team for another.
As long as Kershaw wants to play baseball and is capable of doing so, he will be a member of the Dodgers.
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