dodgers And Clayton Kershaw A one-year deal is being reached that will bring the future Hall of Fame back to Los Angeles for a 16th season, a source confirmed to ESPN Thursday night.
The Athletic first reported the development.
Kershaw’s deal is expected to be worth the same as a one-year $17 million contract soon after the owners’ lockout ends in March. The Dodgers earlier on Thursday declined to extend Kershaw’s $19.65 million qualifying offer, just like they did at the start of last season, largely because they didn’t want to pressurize him before making a decision. wanted.
The 34-year-old Kershaw continued to perform like one of the game’s best pitchers when he was healthy last season, leading 12-3 with a 2.28 ERA in 126â…“ innings, 137 dismissals and an all-out from Dodger Stadium. Only 23 Walks released when starting Star Game. , But Kershaw continued to struggle with health issues as well, serving two different terms on the injured list due to trouble in his lower back.
A three-time Cy Young Award winner, Kershaw is expected to go year after year at this point in his career, but he had originally decided to return for the 2023 season under the stretch. Texas RangersThe team he grew up for, which lives near his home and is now run by his friend, pitcher-executive Chris Young, was seen as a potential threat to re-signing with the Dodgers.
But Kershaw, who deeply values ​​the opportunity to compete for the championship on an annual basis, decided to return to the only major league team he has ever pitched for.
The Dodgers began the offseason looking to refill their rotation, but now four starting pitchers have been laid off for next year, with Kershaw joining Julio Urias, Dustin May And Tony Gonsolin, Tyler AndersonWho came out as an All-Star last season was given an extended qualifying offer and has until Tuesday to accept or decline.
The Dodgers on Thursday declined their $16 million option on Justin Turner’s contract, but expect he – like Kershaw – to return in 2023.
Published at www.espn.com
