Clayton Kershaw on the Dodgers’ Offseason: ‘I Wanted to Be a Part of That’
In his final start last season, Clayton Kershaw felt embarrassed. He told reporters that “he let everybody down.”
In Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Kershaw gave up six runs and only recorded one out. It was uncharacteristically bad by his standards, and left some wondering if this was the end of the future Hall of Famer’s career.
Kershaw wondered, too. He took time away in the offseason to decide what was next and, after a lot of discussions with his family, decided he wasn’t done. Watching his team commit more than $1 billion to free agents also helped him make up his mind.
“This offseason has been pretty amazing to watch, honestly. There’s definitely a part of me that wanted to be a part of that, part of this team. Winning an offseason doesn’t mean anything, but it’s a pretty good clubhouse of guys. The talent is probably the best I’ve ever been a part of. I’m hopeful that I can be a part of it, too.”
— Clayton Kershaw via SportsNet LA
Last week, Kershaw signed a one-year contract with a player option for 2025.
To come back healthy this season, Kershaw needed to undergo shoulder surgery for the first time in his career. He believes that he will be “good as new” and that he’s on “a good path right now.”
Most importantly, he is excited to pitch at Dodger Stadium again.
Kershaw won’t return to the mound for a start until late summer, most likely after the All-Star Break. He will have to remain patient and trust his rehab until then. Throughout the surgical process, Kershaw learned that patience isn’t his strongest attribute.
“I think, ultimately, the one thing I learned is that I’m not very patient in general and that sometimes you just have to take time and this stuff and kind of see it from all angles and maybe something you’re not seeing right away. Thankfully I did that and came to a great conclusion and I’m really happy about it.”
Clayton Kershaw via SportsNet LA
Kershaw isn’t expected back at Spring Training until March. He will plan to attend homestands in Los Angeles and travel home to Texas during road trips until he is back with the Dodgers full-time.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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