CLAYTON KERSHAW’S FUTURE WITH THE DODGERS STILL UNCERTAIN AFTER SURGERY
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw’s 2023 season ended on a sour note after a disastrous start in the National League Division Series. The 10-time All-Star recently underwent surgery on his left shoulder to repair ligaments and capsule damage. As a result, Kershaw, who is now a free agent, is expected to be sidelined for at least the first half of the 2024 season.
Despite his injury, there is still hope for a potential comeback. Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes revealed that the team is keeping in contact with Kershaw and remains open to the possibility of a post-rehab reunion. Gomes stated, “We continue to stay in touch with Clayton, and we’ll progress.”
Kershaw, a 35-year-old star, has yet to make a decision about his future. The Dodgers are eager to have him back on the mound, but only time will tell if Kershaw will return to the team.
Stay tuned for more updates on Clayton Kershaw’s recovery and his future with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Dodgers Ace Kershaw Faces Setback: Surgery Delays 2024 Season Debut
Los Angeles, CA – In a shocking turn of events, Dodgers star pitcher Clayton Kershaw will be sidelined until at least July due to shoulder surgery. The left-hander, known for his impressive career statistics, underwent a procedure to repair the glenohumeral ligaments and capsule on November 3. This setback comes after Kershaw’s disappointing 2023 season, where he struggled with his performance.
Kershaw, a three-time NL Cy Young Award-winner, has been a staple in the Dodgers’ starting rotation since being drafted by the team in 2006. Throughout his 16-season career, he has maintained an impressive 2.48 ERA, a 1.004 WHIP, and recorded an astounding 2944 strikeouts in 2712.2 innings. However, last season proved to be a challenge for the veteran pitcher, as his fWAR hit an all-time low (excluding the shortened 2020 season).
Despite his underwhelming performance, the Dodgers showed faith in Kershaw by re-signing him to a one-year, $20 million contract before the 2023 season. However, with his recent surgery and diminished value, it is uncertain how his upcoming free agency will unfold. Experts predict that Kershaw may only command a one-year, $15 million deal for the 2024 season.
The Dodgers have been making headlines this offseason with their aggressive spending in free agency. With over $1 billion invested, the team has focused on strengthening their starting rotation. They made a splash by signing two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani to a massive 10-year, $700 million contract on December 11. Additionally, they acquired Tyler Glasnow from the Tampa Bay Rays in a trade and extended him with a five-year, $136.5 million deal. Japanese free agent Yoshinobu Yamamoto also joined the team on a 12-year, $325 million contract, while lefty James Paxton signed a one-year, $7 million deal.
The revamped Dodgers’ 2024 starting rotation is expected to feature Walker Buehler, Shohei Ohtani (when healthy), Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and James Paxton. Young pitchers Emmet Sheehan and Gavin Stone, who debuted in 2023, may also see some action this season. However, the team’s priority remains Kershaw’s return to the rotation.
It is speculated that the Dodgers may attempt to re-sign Kershaw before the trade deadline. As a three-time NL strikeout leader and 10-time All-Star, Kershaw’s experience and skill would be a valuable asset for the team’s playoff aspirations. The Dodgers have made it clear that they are serious about contending in 2024, and bringing back their ace pitcher would only strengthen their chances.
Stay tuned for more updates on Kershaw’s recovery and the Dodgers’ quest for a championship.
