Los Angeles Dodgers considering nostalgia with Clayton Kershaw
Nostalgia has no place in a major league front office. Keeping a player on the roster just because of what he has meant to the organization can be detrimental to ensuring that a team contends. However, in the case of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Clayton Kershaw, an exception could be made.
Dodgers’ president of baseball operations essentially said as such when discussing Kershaw’s impending free agency. He noted that the nostalgia factor is a reason as to why they would like to keep Kershaw in Los Angeles going forward.
Asked #Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman if they'll treat Clayton Kershaw different than some other impending free agents in the past given what he means to the organization. His answer: pic.twitter.com/FASG7SEap4
— Juan Toribio (@juanctoribio) October 27, 2021
Los Angeles Dodgers want to keep Clayton Kershaw for long term
There is a great deal of risk when it comes to Kershaw. He has not made at least 30 appearances in a season since 2015, missing a couple of weeks with various ailments. His 2021 campaign was cut short due to a forearm injury that cost him all but four outings after July 3. As he will turn 34 years old before the start of the 2022 season, he is not likely to get healthier.
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But there is no questioning what Kershaw can be when he is on the mound. He posted what could be considered a disappointing season by his standards, with a 3.55 ERA and a 1.019 WHiP over his 121.2 innings. Kershaw did continue his excellent command, striking out 144 batters with just 21 walks, but those injuries kept him from making as much of a difference as he should have.
The Dodgers could certainly use Kershaw going forward. Max Scherzer is also slated to become a free agent this offseason, and unlike Kershaw, the Dodgers cannot use the Qualifying Offer on him. Trevor Bauer remains a giant question mark as his status may not be determined for some time. Even then, it is questionable as to whether or not he would be welcomed back.
In the end, it will come down to two factors. The Dodgers, although they want Kershaw to finish his career with the organization, have an idea as to what they want to spend to bring him back. Kershaw, meanwhile, may want to be closer to his family in Texas. A reunion may be likely, but it is not inevitable.
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The Los Angeles Dodgers want Clayton Kershaw to finish his career with the organization. In this case, the nostalgia is understandable.