The Los Angeles Dodgers and starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw have stitches sewn up a new deal for the 2025 season. While undergoing his physical at the Dodgers' Spring Training facility in Arizona, the southpaw Kershaw joined the team's roster after a period as a free agent, as reported by KTLA. Although details of the contract have yet to be delivered fastball down the center, the consensus is a one-year agreement for Kershaw to dawn his 18th season with the Dodgers.

Recovery has been the off-season theme for Kershaw, who, at 36, faced both knee and toe surgeries. Although his 2024 was pitched far outside the strike zone, contributing to a meager seven outings with a 4.50 ERA, the storied Dodger is expected to add depth to a rotation featuring names like Shohei Ohtani and newcomers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Blake Snell. As Dodgers Nation quoted, Kershaw expressed his resolve during last year’s NLCS, stating, "I’m going to be a Dodger."

Kershaw, the craftsman of an illustrious career, stands on the edge of another milestone — a mere 32 strikeouts away from the revered 3,000 club, a testament to his sustained excellence and potential Hall of Fame trajectory as per MLB. His reputation transcends his gameplay, influencing both the culture and environment within the clubhouse. "He shows up here, he wants to be out there for the guys, he wants to show his face," reflected Dodgers infielder Miguel Rojas on Kershaw's early presence at Camelback Ranch.

In addition to Kershaw's anticipated return, the Dodgers' fanbase can celebrate the comeback of super-utility man Kiké Hernández, who is expected to bring a veteran's savvy and playoff poise back to the clubhouse, in the hope of charting their course to another title. Despite his absence from the mound at the tail end of the 2024 season, Kershaw's leadership seems indispensable, as teammate Chris Taylor indicated: "Just having Kersh here makes a big difference for everybody," MLB stated.