Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw has announced his intention to return for the 2025 season despite injuries that have kept him sidelined this postseason. In a statement to Fox before Game 2 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets, Kershaw acknowledged his challenging year, particularly due to ongoing issues with bone spurs in his left big toe.
He expressed a desire to make the most of his upcoming surgery, stating, “I don’t want to have surgery and then shut it down,” emphasizing his commitment to returning to the field next year.
Kershaw, a three-time National League Cy Young Award winner and former NL MVP, had a limited appearance in the 2024 season, participating in just seven games and achieving a record of 2-2 with a 4.50 ERA. He had undergone shoulder surgery after the 2023 season, which delayed his debut until July 25. This surgery was a significant factor in his decision to continue his career for an 18th season, as he feels ready to contribute to his team once again.
As he prepares for the 2025 season, Kershaw remains an integral part of the Dodgers’ history. He ranks second on the franchise’s all-time wins list with 212 victories and leads the team in strikeouts with 2,968, just 32 short of reaching the coveted milestone of 3,000 strikeouts. His impressive statistics underline his significance to the organization and his potential impact moving forward.
Kershaw’s contract for the upcoming seasons includes a player option for 2025 at a base salary of $5 million, along with performance incentives that could increase his earnings by an additional $20 million if certain criteria are met. This structure not only reflects the respect he commands within the league but also highlights the Dodgers’ commitment to retaining one of their most storied players as he aims to make a strong return.
