Dodgers News: Clayton Kershaw Says No Talks Ongoing With Dodgers

Fresh off winning his second Cy Young award in three seasons, Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw hopped on a conference call with the media. Kershaw got 29 of the 30 first place votes and after his impressive 2013 campaign, the focus shifted to where contract talks were with the Dodgers.

It was reported during the season that the Dodgers and Kershaw were nearing an extension on two separate occasions, but nothing was agreed to. Talking to Bill Shaikin of the LA Times, Kershaw provided an update on where contract talks are with the Dodgers:

Kershaw says he and #Dodgers have had no contract talks this offseason.

— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) November 14, 2013

Kershaw is under contract for next season, but management would like to get him signed before he hits the open market. Tigers ace and Mariners ace Felix Hernandez set the market with $175 million and $180 million contracts, but he’s sure to exceed $200 million.

Last season, Kershaw went 16-9 with a 1.83 ERA and led the league in ERA, strikeouts and WHIP as he’s clearly the best pitcher in baseball. This winter is important for the Dodgers in certain respects as they look to lock up Kershaw and Hanley Ramirez to long-term extensions.

Like Kershaw, Ramirez is under contract for another season as the 29-year-old shortstop wants to finish his career in Dodger Blue. Chances are the Dodgers will be able to reach agreement with both players as they look to lock up their core for the foreseeable future.

In the meantime, the Dodgers will look to fill other holes in their bullpen and third base, but priority number one remains securing Kershaw so he finishes his career in Dodger blue.

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