The Los Angeles Dodgers still have a bit to wait, but they can count on two of the best pitchers in history in great shape with the confirmed return of the productive Clayton Kershaw.
The 35-year-old American will return for his 17th season with the City of Angels team. According to The Athletic's website, he accepted a one-year contract with an option through 2025 that would guarantee him $10 million. With bonuses tied to the number of starts, he could be paid up to $12 million next season.
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Kershaw could play again in the second half of the season around the end of July or beginning of August, he himself told the media on Thursday. The three-time Cy Young Trophy winner underwent surgery on his left shoulder on November 3rd.
The Dodgers will be without Kershaw and Shohei Ohtani on the mound for many months. The Japanese won't be pitching in 2024, but will still act as hitters. Both men should have a significant impact on the rest of the team as the season progresses.
The two Gunners had teased each other before, most notably at the 2022 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Before he stepped to the plate, Ohtani predicted he would throw a punch at Kershaw's first pitch against him. The $700 million man had actually managed a single…before he was pulled out by the veteran when he was standing a little too far from first base.
Despite his few health issues, Kershaw showed in 2023 that he is still among the elite in his sport. The curveball master went 13-5 with a 2.46 ERA in 24 starts.