Former MVP of the Dodgers expected to turn down a $10 million return

With multiple MVP Award winners in their lineup, the Los Angeles Dodgers seem destined for another World Series run.

But Clayton Kershaw—the team’s MVP with the longest tenure—might be nearing the end of his career. With a $10 million option for the next season, the well-known southpaw is expected to weigh his choices and turn down the opportunity to play again, according to CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa.

“My guess is that Kershaw will decline the player option in order to avoid committing up front,” Axisa stated. “Kershaw is free to turn it down, and if he decides to play again in 2025, the Dodgers will definitely welcome him back. Kershaw does not view the player option as a financial choice. It’s primarily a choice regarding one’s quality of life.

Even with teammates like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani, Kershaw still has an amazing collection of hardware. In addition to his 2014 MVP award, he has three Cy Young Awards, a Gold Glove Award, and 10 seasons of being selected to the All-Star Team under his belt. Despite having 212 wins over 17 seasons and a career 2.50 ERA, he will be replaced.

regarded as one of the best left-handed pitchers in baseball history.

Despite being in his 36th season of play, he has struggled with injuries. He’s only thrown 30 innings so far this season, yet his ERA is 4.50. Due to a toe injury that is keeping him from playing, he seems more focused on returning to the pitch this year than with his potential for 2025.

Kershaw told Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times, “I think I’ll be able to,” in response to a question about whether he would throw again before the regular season ended. “I believe that because I am running out of time, I must at least be throwing bullpens. If it continues, it ought to be beneficial. I really can’t afford to be late, though.

As Axisa noted, even if Kershaw chooses not to use his player option, he may still elect to return to the team.

on an alternative arrangement. However, it appears that ongoing injury issues have complicated the seemingly obvious decision to try again in 2025.