Clayton Kershaw, the eminent southpaw with a career spanning numerous accolades, is gearing up to make a return to the mound in 2025. Despite navigating a season hampered by injury and curtailed appearances, the 36-year-old pitcher remains undeterred in his commitment to the game.
The Path Back
Kershaw's recent season was undoubtedly challenging. Limited to a mere seven starts and clocking just 30 innings, it's been a year where unfortunate twists seemed to prevail. A bone spur in his big toe sidelined him indefinitely since August 30, eliminating any hopes of postseason play. Yet, in the face of this adversity, Kershaw's resolve remains unwavered. "Mentally, I feel great," he says, a statement that perhaps embodies the resilience of a seasoned athlete determined to make a triumphant return.
The toll of injuries is not unfamiliar territory for Kershaw. He underwent shoulder surgery last offseason, adding to his list of health battles. Reflecting on this ordeal, Kershaw shared, "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."
In Pursuit of Excellence
Kershaw's statistics underscore a career marked by dominance. With 212 wins under his belt, a remarkable ERA+ of 156, and a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) value of 76.5, his legacy in Major League Baseball is cemented. Three Cy Young awards further attest to his prowess on the mound. However, for Kershaw, the drive to don his cleats again goes beyond just the numbers—it’s a testament to his enduring love for the game and an opportunity to continue contributing to the sport he cherishes.
Despite having a $5 million player option, the same amount he earned this season, Kershaw’s aspiration extends beyond financial incentives. Describing his commitment to leveraging his surgery for a tangible comeback, he insists, "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."
The Undying Spirit
The story of Clayton Kershaw is one of a formidable athlete whose spirit transcends the ailments and setbacks that a career in professional sports inevitably brings. While the numbers reflect a stellar past, his current resolve paints a picture of someone not yet ready to turn the page on an illustrious career.
The road to recovery and a potential return in 2025 is laden with the kind of uncertainty that pervades all sporting comebacks. However, Kershaw's mental fortitude and unwavering determination suggest that the journey, irrespective of its challenges, is one worth pursuing. As Kershaw prepares for his anticipated return, fans and followers of the game watch with bated breath, eager for the resurgence of one of baseball’s all-time greats.