Dodgers News: Andrew Friedman Doesn’t Know What Future Holds for Clayton Kershaw
Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw didn't end the 2023 season the way he wanted to after the shortest start of his career.
Kershaw's lone appearance in Game 1 of the NLDS failed to push past the first inning after six runs crossed the plate at the worst possible time.
The lefty's shoulder remained an issue that flared up at the most pivotal point in the season and retirement questions are sure to circulate until a formal choice is made.
LA front office executive Andrew Friedman remains in the dark like everybody else but extended Kershaw an open invitation back to the team should he choose to continue his playing career.
Where do you stand with Kershaw?
“I think he and Ellen are going to take some time right now and assess. The ball is squarely in their court and I’m sure at some point I’ll talk to him.
Will the Dodgers want him back?
Absolutely. Absolutely.
Baseball history's regular-season ERA king maintained his great reputation in this regard after he finished his 16th season with a 2.46 mark over 131.2 innings of work.
Even with a shoulder injury that sidelined him for six weeks, Kershaw returned and limited runs at his normal clip despite velocity and command limitations.
Poor peripheral numbers reared their ugly head against Arizona to open LA's postseason as the Diamondbacks batted around Kershaw in the first inning and set the tone early for their eventual sweep.
Injuries continue to take away Kershaw's impressive abilities on the mound and his struggles didn't help LA in the slightest this October.
Friedman's indication of an open door is the least he can do for the future Hall of Famer but nobody knows if the pitcher will take the opportunity for 2024.
Though fans don't want to remember Kershaw's final start in baseball as the shortest of his career, such might become a reality for the veteran this offseason.
