Clayton Kershaw Eyes 2025 Comeback Amid Injury Setbacks
At 36, Clayton Kershaw, a celebrated veteran of Major League Baseball and a linchpin of the Los Angeles Dodgers' pitching staff, is gearing up for a return to the mound in 2025. His illustrious career has been marked by towering achievements, including three Cy Young awards, a 212-win record, an ERA+ of 156, and an impressive WAR of 76.5. However, the journey back to peak form has been anything but straightforward as injuries have repeatedly intervened.
Battling Through Injuries
This past season was particularly challenging for Kershaw, who managed only seven starts and 30 innings before being sidelined. His last outing was on August 30, after which he was ruled out of postseason play due to a bone spur in his big toe. This came after an offseason spent recovering from shoulder surgery, a procedure Kershaw underwent to mend his pitching arm. Reflecting on the setbacks, Kershaw stated, "I had shoulder surgery last offseason, and my shoulder and elbow, everything, my arm, feels great. Obviously, I had some tough luck with my foot this year."
The bone spur incident was an unexpected turn for the seasoned pitcher, especially after optimistic reports on the recovery of his shoulder. Despite these obstacles, Kershaw's resolve remains unshaken, and his passion for the game undiminished.
Commitment to Return
Kershaw's commitment to making a comeback in 2025 underscores his drive. "Mentally, I feel great," he shared, suggesting that his challenges have not worn down his spirit or determination. The Dodgers ace emphasized his intention to make the most of his surgery, saying, "I don't want to have surgery and shut it down. So I'm gonna come back next year and give it a go and see how it goes." This determination is emblematic of Kershaw’s career, where his competitiveness has always matched his skill.
The Financial Context
Financially, Kershaw stands on secure footing with a $5 million player option in his current contract, matching his earnings for this past season. This option suggests a mutual understanding between Kershaw and the Dodgers, providing him the opportunity to dictate the terms of his return without additional financial pressure.
A Storied Career and Future Prospects
As Kershaw sets his sights on 2025, fans and analysts alike are left to ponder what this next phase will hold. With a resume that places him among the all-time greats, his return could bolster the Dodgers’ rotation, offering both experience and leadership to aspiring young pitchers. While his body has had its share of trials, Kershaw's mental toughness and dedication to the sport present a promising narrative for his comeback journey.
Kershaw's plan to return reflects not only personal resilience but a professional maturity that recognizes both the risks and rewards of extending a storied career. In an era of increasingly short-lived sports careers, his determination to remain at the pinnacle of professional baseball even after significant surgeries testifies to his enduring passion for the game.
The road to 2025 will undoubtedly be filled with challenges and uncertainties. However, for Clayton Kershaw, the indomitable spirit of a champion remains the guiding force as he prepares to take on opponents with the same intensity that has defined his legacy.