In a move that showcases both determination and resilience, 36-year-old Clayton Kershaw has set his sights on a return to the pitcher’s mound in 2025. Despite a season marred by injuries and limited playtime, the famed Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander is looking to make a significant comeback. As one of baseball's most accomplished pitchers, Kershaw's return is eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
Season of Setbacks
This past season was challenging for Kershaw, who managed only seven starts, clocking in just 30 innings. Since August 30, he has been sidelined due to a troublesome bone spur in his big toe, an issue that ultimately ruled him out of postseason competition. The setback added to the list of recent health challenges for Kershaw, including shoulder surgery last offseason. Nonetheless, he maintains a positive outlook on his physical condition moving forward.
"Mentally, I feel great," Kershaw shared, providing insight into his current mindset. He elaborated, "I had shoulder surgery last offseason, and my shoulder and elbow, everything, my arm, feels great. Obviously, I had some tough luck with my foot this year."
Embracing Optimism
Despite the hurdles, Kershaw remains firm in his commitment to return. His optimism is not merely about recovery; it's about leveraging the surgery to its fullest potential. "But I want to make use of this surgery. I don't want to have surgery and shut it down. So I'm gonna come back next year and give it a go and see how it goes," Kershaw expressed, underlining his resolve.
A Legacy of Excellence
Kershaw's illustrious career has been marked with remarkable achievements, including three Cy Young awards. With a career record of 212 wins, he boasts an ERA+ of 156 and a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 76.5, statistics that firmly place him among the greats in baseball history. These accomplishments not only highlight his talent but also his enduring impact on the sport.
Currently, Kershaw has a $5 million player option in his contract, which he fully earned this past season. This contractual element adds another layer to his decision to push forward and aim for a robust comeback in the following year.
A Look Towards Recovery
While Kershaw's aim to return to pitching in the 2025 season presents challenges, his career suggests he has the capability to surmount them. His commitment to recovery and readiness for future play reflects his passion for the game and dedication to his team. As training and rehabilitation continue, baseball enthusiasts will undoubtably be watching closely, hopeful for Kershaw’s triumphant return.
Kershaw's story is far from over. With his experience, resilience, and hallmark determination, the baseball community eagerly awaits to see what the future holds for this remarkable athlete as he embarks on yet another comeback journey.