Dodgers News: Kershaw Focused on Pitching, Not Pain, in Return to Dodgers
Since rejoining the Dodgers after a lengthy rehab, Clayton Kershaw has opened up to David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports about his emotional and physical hurdles over the past year. After undergoing surgeries on his shoulder and toe following the 2024 season, the three-time Cy Young winner admitted that the road back hasn’t been easy but that his drive to contribute meaningfully to the team never wavered.
“This has been a, it’s been a hard one, for sure. But yeah, I’m super excited to get back out here, more than anything. Just tired of taking up space, you know, I want to, I want to contribute. I want to help the team out. And so I’m, I’m excited to get out there and start getting some people out and, you know, making a positive contribution.”
For Kershaw, the decision to return wasn’t about legacy or records but about proving to himself that he could still compete at a high level. A sense of unfinished business drives him, a desire to return not just healthy but impactful.
“I think not letting an injury be why I stop,” he explained. “That’s probably the main thing. Look, if I get out there and get shelled and I’m not any good anymore, and just the time is the time, then that’s one thing. But I don’t want it to be because I didn’t rehab an injury well or let something get the best of me.”
Part of last season’s challenge wasn’t just physical, it was mental. Kershaw revealed that he spent much of 2024 pitching through significant pain, especially in his foot, which made it difficult to focus entirely on executing pitches. Now, as he eyes a midseason return, he’s eager for a fresh slate.
“It felt good to be focused on pitching,” he said. “The last few times I pitched last year, I was just focused on how much my foot was hurting. So I think now, kind of shifting the gears towards, ‘How do I get people out?’ and focusing more on the next pitch as opposed to what hurts, is nice.”
Kershaw’s remarks reflect the resilience of a battle-tested veteran and his unwavering commitment to the team. Even after achieving MVP, a World Series title, and over 200 career wins, he remains motivated by the simple desire to help the Dodgers win.
As the team prepares for the summer months ahead of the 2025 season, Kershaw is expected to return on Saturday against the Los Angeles Angels. The first pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. PDT.
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