Dodgers News: Clayton Kershaw’s Not Ready to Make a Decision About Playing Next Season

How long can 22 hang?

Oct 20, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22) pitches against the Tampa Bay Rays during the first inning in game one of the 2020 World Series at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

For Dodger fans, there's only one person that comes to mind when they think of 22, and that is Clayton Kershaw. But how long can Kershaw stick around with the Dodgers?

The Dodgers Ace has not made a decision on whether or not he is going to be wearing Dodger blue next season, or if he will be playing at all. He made that clear after Tuesday night's impressive outing against the Angels. 

"Not quite yet," Kershaw said in response to if he can make a decision about whether he'll be back next season. "It’s definitely more fun to be healthy than not. It’s definitely more fun to pitch well than not. Like I’ve said, I wouldn’t pitch if I didn’t think I could pitch well."

Shut it down, 22. pic.twitter.com/GPlQvwwMVZ

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 21, 2023

Despite his age, the future Hall of Famer is playing great, as he has just finished off seven scoreless innings and five strikeouts in Tuesday night's 2-0 win against the Angels. 

The best part about it all is that he recognizes that he is playing well, and enjoying the season as it goes by. 

"I’ve had a good time so far (this season). Obviously, we’ve had our struggles but I think we still got a good ballclub and, personally, it’s been a fun group to play with for sure.”

For the amount his body has taken in the past 15 years, the Dodger great is doing just fine in Year 16, and his teammates and coaches recognize it. 

"He never gives in", said Will Smith in a discussion with The Athletic. 

“I just don’t see a better competitor out there than Clayton Kershaw," his manager Dave Roberts said.

As much as the man himself is enjoying his game, I believe baseball fans need to stop counting down the days and enjoy his game as well. Because before you know it, his last pitch will have already been thrown.