Los Angeles Dodgers pitchers and catchers are less than one week away from reporting for the start of 2024 Spring Training, and whether or not that group will include Clayton Kershaw remains unclear.
Kershaw is among the group of still remaining Dodgers free agents, though in his case it’s more due to recovering from left shoulder surgery than because of what’s been a relatively slow-moving market.
Throughout the offseason Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, general manager Brandon Gomes and manager Dave Roberts have all made it clear they hope to see Kershaw back with the team. That sentiment was reiterated Saturday during DodgerFest at Dodger Stadium.
“We continue to stay in touch with Clayton,” Gomes said.
Shortly after Gomes’ media availability, Roberts told reporters he’d recently been in contact with Kershaw through text message.
“His rehab has come along really well,” Roberts added. “You know us, we’re going to keep in contact during talks. He’s always been a Dodger. That’s our hope as well. … I think his thought process right now is dominate the rehab process and get something done when it makes sense.”
During a recent “Dodger Talk” interview with David Vassegh on AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio, Kershaw said his recovery from left shoulder surgery had been going well and he was looking forward to pitching in 2024.
Although the 35-year-old faces a lengthy rehab process, his anticipation since revealing surgery was required has been to return this season. Assuming all continues to go well, that likely would take place after the All-Star break.
When will Clayton Kershaw sign?
Given that Kershaw is not going to be recovered in time for Opening Day, his timeline to sign a new contract is flexible.
At this juncture, it would make most sense to take place no sooner than Thursday, which is the first day teams can begin putting players on the 60-day injured list. That would apply to Kershaw and be of particular benefit for the Dodgers as they face somewhat of a 40-man roster crunch.
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