Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — In a pregame interview prior to Monday’s NLCS Game 2, Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw revealed that he plans to return for the 2025 season, a decision that is sure to bring mixed emotions to Dodgers fans. The 36-year-old veteran, who has battled injuries in recent years, expressed his determination to make the most of his recovery and continue his illustrious career.
Reflecting on his health and his desire to keep playing, Kershaw shared his mindset about returning next season: “Mentally, I feel great…I had shoulder surgery last offseason, and my shoulder and elbow, everything in my arm feels great,” he said. He acknowledged the frustration of dealing with a foot injury this season but emphasized that his surgery played a significant role in his decision to come back. “I want to make use of the surgery, you know? I don’t want to have surgery and then shut it down, so I’m going to come back next year and give it a go.”
Kershaw’s enthusiasm for returning is not just about personal achievements but also stems from his desire to contribute to a team that has shown incredible resilience throughout the postseason. The Dodgers recently tied a nearly 60-year-old record by pitching 33 consecutive scoreless innings in the 2024 playoffs, showcasing the strength of their bullpen and the collective effort of the pitching staff. Despite being sidelined during this dominant stretch, Kershaw has been an avid supporter from the dugout and praised the team’s collective effort. “It’s been everybody…I think that’s been the coolest thing to see,” he said, crediting the bullpen’s success and the contributions from various pitchers who stepped up when needed.
Kershaw also touched on the difference in the team’s dynamics compared to previous years, noting a sense of unity and determination that has set the 2024 Dodgers apart. “This year, this group of guys just feels really resilient…Whether we’re down 6-0 or up 6-0, it’s that same fight every single inning,” he explained. This grit was especially evident during their divisional series comeback against the San Diego Padres, where Kershaw saw the team rally around key moments, such as Teoscar Hernández’s grand slam and Walker Buehler’s return to form after a challenging inning.
Reflecting on the evolution of baseball and the team’s current approach, Kershaw noted that bullpen usage has become more strategic in the postseason. He praised the team’s adaptability, especially considering the injuries that affected the rotation this season. “If the bullpen is the fourth starter, then so be it…let’s ride ourselves and get out there and get another win,” he said, expressing confidence in the Dodgers’ pitching depth.
So now that the cat is out of the bag on Kershaw’s plans, that doesn’t necessarily mean that he will 100% be a Dodger. Many fans are like me–we would love to see Number 22 finish out his Cooperstown bound career as a Dodger for life. However, there is a player option in Kershaw’s contract, so it’s up to Clayton and Ellen to make the call as to where he wants to finish up his career. In years past, he’s flirted with the idea of returning to his home in Dallas and playing for the Texas Rangers to be closer to his family. However, the idea of Clayton Kershaw as anything other than a Los Angeles Dodger doesn’t sit right with me.
But, there are sure to be fans, as there were this year, who will want to say, “thanks for the buggy ride” to Kershaw and focus on stocking the rotation with fresher arms. And I’m sure there will be a rotation spot available for Kershaw if he wants it. We’ll just have to see where he throws that final pitch of his Hall of Fame career.
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
