The Los Angeles Dodgers re-signed Clayton Kershaw to a one-year contract with a player option for the 2025 season. Kershaw’s deal was made official Friday, when Dodgers pitchers and catchers held their first Spring Training workout at Camelback Ranch.
That also represented the second day the Dodgers could begin putting players on the 60-day injured list, which was of use with a full 40-man roster. Tony Gonsolin was placed on the 60-day IL in order to finalize the signing of Kershaw.
Such was the case with Dustin May on Thursday in order for the Dodgers to re-sign Ryan Brasier to a two-year deal.
Kershaw himself will likely be put on the 60-day IL in the near future as he is not expected to pitch until the summer months of the 2024 season.
Kershaw, who turns 36 years old on March 19, underwent surgery on November 3 to repair the glenohumeral ligaments and capsule in his left shoulder. The procedure was completed by Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache.
Although such an operation for a player of Kershaw’s age and experience makes for a difficult road back, the longtime ace has maintained confidence he will be capable of returning after the All-Star break in 2024.
It’s a sentiment that’s been shared by Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman as well. He made it clear on multiple instances during the offseason that the Dodgers held interest in re-signing Kershaw.
General manager Brandon Gomes and manager Dave Roberts both expressed that during DodgerFest last weekend.
“His rehab has come along really well,” Roberts said. “You know us, we’re going to keep in contact during talks. He’s always been a Dodger. That’s our hope as well. … I think his thought process right now is dominate the rehab process and get something done when it makes sense.”
Clayton Kershaw’s contract option
When Kershaw was a free agent after the 2021 and 2022 seasons, he remained with the Dodgers on respective one-year contracts.
Kershaw’s newest contract including a player option for 2025 not only offers some flexibility in the event there is a setback with returning this year, but also the potential to share a rotation with Shohei Ohtani next year.
For 2024, Kershaw is becoming the longest-tenured pitcher in Dodgers franchise history with his 17th season. Zack Wheat and Bill Russell, both position players, are the only other Dodgers to play more (18 years).
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