Clayton Kershaw Believes He Can Return to Dodgers Sooner Than Expected

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw told reporters he could be ready to pitch as early as the end of May or early June. He is expected to start the season on the 60-day injured list as he is recovering from two different surgeries he underwent this offseason.

Once Kershaw is eligible to return from the 60-day IL, he believes he will be ready take the mound for the Dodgers for his 18th season with the team.

The Dodgers officially announced the signing of the 10-time All-Star Thursday and in a corresponding move transferred River Ryan to the 60-day IL. The Dodgers signed Kershaw to a one-year, $7.5 million deal. Kershaw’s new contract can reach up to $16 million, pending performance bonuses.

Read more: Full Breakdown of Clayton Kershaw’s Contract With Dodgers, Which Could Reach $16 Million

Dodger fans were excited to see Kershaw at Camelback Ranch on Tuesday, an indication the veteran southpaw would spend another season with L.A.

In 2024, Kershaw started seven games for the Dodgers and made his season debut on July 25. He produced a 4.50 ERA and 1.50 WHIP in 30 innings after returning from left shoulder surgery.

There was speculation whether Kershaw would retire after the 2024 campaign, but during the postseason, he confirmed he would be returning for another year.

The three-time National League Cy Young Award winner has 2,968 strikeouts and is just 32 strikeouts away from reaching the 3,000-strikeout club. Kershaw could also become just the fifth player to record 3,000 strikeouts with the same team.

Photo Credit: Owen Ziliak/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

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