Los Angeles Dodgers Re-Sign Clayton Kershaw, Ward off Dangerous Texas Rangers Interest to Retain Pitching Icon

Clayton Kershaw was always going to have a homecoming this year. While the Texas Rangers are from his home state, the Los Angeles Dodgers have been his home since 2008. So no matter what he chose, there would’ve been a celebration for him. But the love for LA proved too much for Texas, and the Claw is making his way back to the Blue Crew.

While the 35-year-old is currently healing from his injuries, the deal he has signed with the Dodgers is a rather interesting one. Joining the now star-studded lineup comprising Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and eventually Shohei Ohtani, one wonders how far the comeback of this legendary pitcher has come.

Clayton Kershaw is a Dodger forever

The baseball world was filled with speculation that Clayton Kershaw could be heading to the Texas Rangers. There was a genuine interest from the World Series Champions in the Claw. With Kershaw injured and about to miss at least half of 2024, fans wondered whether they had seen the last of him in the Blue Jersey. Well! It was a bit too soon, as Kershaw has reportedly agreed to a one-year deal with the Blue Crew.

While Kershaw is expected to return deep into the summer of 2024, there’s a chance for him to extend his stay. The Athletic has reported that “His new contract with the Dodgers includes a player option for 2025, according to a person briefed on the negotiations..” This is good news for fans who were hoping to see Ohtani and Kershaw pitch in the same lineup.

As is known, Shotime won’t be pitching this year due to his elbow surgery. But all reports have indicated that the superstar expects to stand on the mound in 2025. If Kershaw uses that option, there will be a chance that we’ll see these stars hitting a one-two punch. How exciting would that be?

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While the financial details are yet to be revealed, it is known that Kershaw will take a physical in Arizona later this week. With the 35-year-old just 56 strikeouts away from joining the 3000-strikeout club, could this be his swansong with the Dodgers?

Los Angeles Dodgers getting ready to give the Claw a fitting finale?

Despite his shoulder problems, Kershaw managed to have a 2.46 ERA in 2023. However, he had a nightmare during NLDS Game 1, where he gave up six runs in the first inning. Kershaw wouldn’t want that to be the last time he pitched for the Dodgers. At the same time, the Blue Crew would be looking to give a fitting send-off to their 14-year-old veteran.

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With a massively improved pitching staff with him, Kershaw can go for that elusive second World Series championship. There’s a chance for Kershaw and the Dodgers to write a perfect finale for their relationship. Can they do it?