In the world of baseball, loyalty between players and their teams is often a topic of debate. One such case that’s currently in the spotlight is whether the Los Angeles Dodgers should offer Clayton Kershaw a multiyear contract. Let’s explore why this move makes sense for the Dodgers and the player himself.
The Ball’s in Kershaw’s Court, But Should It Be?
President of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, has made it clear that if Clayton Kershaw wants to continue his career with the Dodgers, the organization is more than willing to facilitate it. However, this waiting game may not be the best approach. Kershaw has recently undergone shoulder surgery, and his return to the field remains uncertain. Instead of solely relying on his decision, the Dodgers should actively pursue him.
Friedman said of Kershaw and his wife, Ellen: “The ball’s squarely in their court.”
But it shouldn’t be.
The Baseball Reasons
Clayton Kershaw’s value to the Dodgers is undeniable. Despite his age, he still proves himself as a reliable pitcher. In the 2022 season, he maintained a 13-5 record with an impressive 2.46 earned-run average in 24 regular-season starts. This puts him in the same league as other $20-million starting pitchers, such as Miles Mikolas, Charlie Morton, Joe Musgrove, and Hyun-Jin Ryu. While Kershaw may not be the Game 1 starter in the postseason, he can be a valuable No. 3 or 4 starter for the Dodgers.
The Homecoming Lure
One aspect the Texas Rangers have over the Dodgers is their proximity to Kershaw’s home in suburban Dallas. In recent years, Kershaw has had to spend significant time away from his family, which is a considerable sacrifice. With the Rangers now holding the title of World Series champions, their appeal has significantly increased.
The Rangers’ Globe Life Park is just a short drive from Kershaw’s home, offering him the opportunity to be closer to his family.
A Proactive Approach
Considering Kershaw’s ongoing rehabilitation, it would be wise for the Dodgers to take a more proactive stance. They shouldn’t wait for Kershaw to be ready to pitch. Instead, they should consider approaching him with a multiyear contract offer. This contract could include the understanding that the first year would primarily be focused on rehabilitation.
The Dodgers have a precedent for this sort of deal. They tendered Walker Buehler a contract last winter, even though they knew he was unlikely to play a major league game in the same year, securing their control over him for the next season.
In conclusion, the Dodgers have a compelling case for offering Clayton Kershaw a multiyear contract. His value as a pitcher, combined with the lure of playing closer to home, makes this move not only reasonable but beneficial for both parties. To secure Kershaw’s future with the team and maximize his potential, the Dodgers should take the initiative and make him a multiyear contract offer.
Ultimately, the ball might be in Kershaw’s court, but it’s time for the Dodgers to step up to the plate.
The Impact on Team Dynamics
Dodgers: Insider Suggests LA Could Offer Clayton Kershaw Incentive
Clayton Kershaw’s injury-riddled season presents an enticing opportunity for the Los Angeles Dodgers to secure his re-signing. Drawing parallels to the St. Louis Cardinals’ one-year deal with Adam Wainwright, the Dodgers might consider offering Kershaw a contract with a $10 million base salary, coupled with substantial incentive bonuses based on games started and innings pitched. This approach not only accommodates Kershaw’s unique situation but also provides the Dodgers with a cost-effective means of retaining a valuable asset.
Will Clayton Kershaw Sign a One-Year Contract with the Dodgers?
Updated as of 7:13 p.m. on November 10, 2022:
Clayton Kershaw is on the verge of securing a one-year contract with the Dodgers, closely mirroring the terms of the $17-million deal he inked in the previous season. This development is based on insights from two reliable sources privy to the negotiations, though not authorized to comment publicly. The finalization of this agreement is anticipated within the coming days.
Will Clayton Kershaw Return for a 16th Season?
San Diego – Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers swiftly confirmed the return of the probable Hall of Famer for his 16th season, as they reached an agreement in early November. The formalization of this arrangement took place on Monday, solidifying a one-year contract that offers Kershaw a $15 million salary for 2023 along with a $5 million signing bonus.
How much does Clayton Kershaw make a year?
The one-year deal between Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers, officially sealed on Monday, includes a substantial income for the pitcher. In 2023, Kershaw is set to earn a $15 million base salary, complemented by a noteworthy $5 million signing bonus. Kershaw expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I mean, just honestly, it just feels great to come back. I just felt like this is where we needed to be. This is where we want to be."
How has Kershaw changed the Dodgers’ culture?
The challenge the Dodgers face may not be in convincing Clayton Kershaw to return but in reassuring him that the team remains the Dodgers he once knew. Kershaw’s journey began in a different era of baseball, one where front offices held less sway, and players enjoyed more autonomy. The transformation of power dynamics within the game has inevitably influenced its culture, raising the question of how Kershaw’s presence has impacted the Dodgers’ evolving identity.
How many years does Kershaw have with the Dodgers?
Clayton Edward Kershaw, born on March 19, 1988, is a prominent American professional baseball pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). Notably, Kershaw, a left-handed starting pitcher, has remained exclusively affiliated with the Los Angeles Dodgers throughout his extensive major league career, which commenced in 2008.
