Clayton Kershaw, a beloved figure in the world of baseball and a veteran pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is facing a pivotal moment in his career. In this article, we explore the reasons why the Dodgers need to offer Clayton Kershaw a multiyear contract, considering both baseball and personal factors.
1. Kershaw’s Uncertain Future
Andrew Friedman, the president of baseball operations for the Dodgers, has expressed the organization’s willingness to have Kershaw back. However, Kershaw’s recent shoulder problems have raised questions about his future in the game. He has undergone a procedure to address these issues and is hopeful of returning next summer.
2. Baseball Reasons for Re-signing Kershaw
Kershaw’s impact on the field is undeniable. Despite his injury setbacks, he maintained a remarkable performance. In the 2022 season, he pitched with an impressive 13-5 record and a 2.46 earned-run average in 24 regular-season starts. These statistics prove that he still has what it takes to be a valuable asset to the Dodgers.
3. Comparing Kershaw to Other Pitchers
It’s essential to consider how Kershaw’s performance stacks up against other $20-million starting pitchers in the league. When comparing him to the likes of Miles Mikolas, Charlie Morton, Joe Musgrove, and Hyun-Jin Ryu, Kershaw’s record stands out. The Dodgers should recognize that having him as a No. 3 or 4 starter would be a significant advantage.
4. Personal Considerations
While Kershaw’s loyalty to the Dodgers is evident, the Texas Rangers offer something unique – proximity to his home in suburban Dallas. Recent years have seen Kershaw spending extended periods away from his family, which is undoubtedly a challenge. Moreover, the Rangers’ rise to become the World Series champions eliminates the previous deterrent that kept Kershaw from signing with them.
5. The Need for Proactive Action
Given Kershaw’s uncertain health status, it is essential for the Dodgers to be proactive. They cannot afford to wait for him to be fully ready to pitch. One potential solution is to approach him about a multiyear contract with the understanding that he might spend the first year in rehabilitation, similar to deals the Dodgers have made in the past.
6. The Dodgers’ Precedent with Walker Buehler
To further illustrate the feasibility of such a deal, we can look at the Dodgers’ past actions. They tendered Walker Buehler a contract last winter, even though they knew he was unlikely to pitch during the year. This decision was not merely a charitable gesture; it was a strategic move to maintain team control for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Dodgers face a critical decision regarding Clayton Kershaw’s future with the team. The statistics, his contributions, and personal factors all make a strong case for offering Kershaw a multiyear contract. It is not only in the best interest of the player but also in the team’s strategic advantage.
Ultimately, the ball is in the Dodgers’ court, and offering Clayton Kershaw a multiyear contract may be the key to ensuring he remains a part of the Dodger family.
The Strategic Significance of a Multiyear Contract
Dodgers: Insider Suggests LA Could Offer Clayton Kershaw Incentive…
Clayton Kershaw’s injury-riddled season presents a favorable opportunity for the Dodgers to secure his re-signing. Drawing from a one-year deal that the Cardinals arranged with Adam Wainwright, the Dodgers may contemplate offering Kershaw a contract with a $10 million base salary, complemented by substantial incentive bonuses tied to games started and innings pitched.
This strategic move not only acknowledges Kershaw’s potential but also leverages his remarkable contributions to the team, providing him with incentives aligned with his performance.
Key Takeaway: The Dodgers are poised to make a compelling offer to retain Kershaw’s valuable presence.
Will Clayton Kershaw sign a one-year contract with the Dodgers?
Latest Update: As of 7:13 p.m. on November 10, 2022, sources reveal that Clayton Kershaw is on the verge of finalizing a one-year contract with the Dodgers. This deal closely mirrors the $17-million contract he inked in the preceding season. Although the agreement has not yet been publicly confirmed, negotiations are in progress, and an official announcement is expected in the coming days.
Key Information: Clayton Kershaw’s future with the Dodgers appears to be heading towards another one-year contract, building upon the previous season’s agreement.
Will Clayton Kershaw return for a 16th season?
Latest Update: In a swift and decisive move, Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers have solidified his return for a remarkable 16th season. The agreement was reached early in November and has since been officially confirmed. This one-year deal ensures that Kershaw will receive a $15 million salary for the year 2023, complemented by a substantial $5 million signing bonus.
Key Information: Clayton Kershaw’s legacy with the Dodgers continues, marking his remarkable 16th season with the team.
How much does Clayton Kershaw make a year?
Annual Earnings: Clayton Kershaw’s recent one-year deal, officially confirmed, awards him a substantial compensation package for the year 2023. He will receive a $15 million base salary, accompanied by a generous $5 million signing bonus.
Kershaw’s Perspective: In expressing his enthusiasm for the deal, Kershaw shared, “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.”
Key Information: Clayton Kershaw’s annual earnings for 2023 amount to $20 million, including salary and bonus.
How has Kershaw changed the Dodgers’ culture?
Cultural Shift: Clayton Kershaw’s impact on the Dodgers transcends his performance on the field. Over the years, he has played a role in reshaping the team’s culture. His tenure with the Dodgers spans an era where baseball’s power dynamics and the influence of front offices have evolved significantly. Kershaw’s presence in the league has been a testament to the changing landscape of the sport, as players now navigate a more controlled and structured environment.
Key Insight: Kershaw’s journey with the Dodgers mirrors the shifts in baseball culture, reflecting the changing dynamics that have influenced the game both on and off the field.
How many years does Kershaw have with the Dodgers?
Lengthy Tenure: Clayton Edward Kershaw, a prominent figure in Major League Baseball (MLB), is an American professional baseball pitcher renowned for his exceptional left-handed pitching. He has maintained an enduring association with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team he debuted with in 2008. As of the latest available information, Kershaw’s Major League career has spanned an impressive 15 years, all of which have been spent with the Dodgers.
Key Information: Clayton Kershaw’s Major League journey has been closely intertwined with the Dodgers, representing a remarkable 15-year affiliation with the team.
