Clayton Kershaw staying with Dodgers for 17th season and could pitch in second half of ‘24
GLENDALE, Ariz. ( AP) — Clayton Kershaw is returning for his 17th season with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The team announced a one- year contract on Friday that includes a player option for 2025. A three-time Cy Young Awa rd winner, Kershaw sp o k e about the agreement Thursday as the big- spending Dodgers became the first of the 30 teams to start spring training, opening on a dreary, wet and chilly Thursday morning at Camelback Ranch ahead of their opener against San Diego on March 20 at Seoul, South Korea.
The 210-game winner, who turns 36 on March 19, had a nameplate and a locker in the clubhouse even though his contract had not been announced by the the team.
“I’m on a good path right now,” Kershaw said. “I’m excited about getting ready to pitch again at Dodger Stadium. That sounds fun.”
The Dodgers did announce one deal on Thursday, finalizing a $9 million, two- year contract to retain righthander Ryan Brasier. To make room on the roster for Brasier — who is expected to work out of the bullpen — the Dodgers placed right-hander Dustin May on the 60day injured list.
May is recovering from elbow surgery on July 18. The 36-year-old Brasier was released by Boston midway through last season, signed with the Dodgers, and had a 0.70 ERA over 38 2/ 3 innings and 39 appearances.
Right- hander Tony Gonsolin, who had elbow surgery on Sept. 1, was put on the 60- day IL to open a spot for Kershaw.
Kershaw had surgery Nov. 3 to repair his left shoulder capsule and glenohumeral ligaments, which reinforce the joint capsule. He expects to be available to pitch this summer.