Clayton Kershaw, the legendary southpaw for the Los Angeles Dodgers, continues to pitch in the big leagues, albeit on a different salary scale than his peak. For the 2024 season, Kershaw signed a one-year, $10 million contract to remain with the only franchise he's ever known. This deal, which includes potential performance incentives, reflects his veteran status and the recovery period following offseason shoulder surgery. While it's a testament to his enduring value and the Dodgers' trust, it's also a significant adjustment from the eye-watering figures he commanded just a few years ago.
Kershaw's Journey: From Record Breaker to Respected Veteran
Kershaw's financial journey in MLB has been nothing short of historic. After his initial rookie and arbitration years, he inked a monumental seven-year, $215 million extension with the Dodgers in 2014, making him the highest-paid pitcher in baseball at the time. This groundbreaking deal solidified his status as an undisputed ace and set a new benchmark for pitching salaries. Over his illustrious career, he has accumulated well over $300 million in earnings, a figure that places him among the wealthiest athletes in sports history, showcasing incredible longevity and consistent elite performance.
Compared to the current market for top-tier aces like Gerrit Cole or Max Scherzer in their prime, who command upwards of $30 million annually, Kershaw's $10 million for 2024 stands out. It's a reflection of his recent injury history and the mutual understanding between player and team regarding his role as he enters his 17th season. While no longer topping salary lists, this contract still positions him comfortably above many starting pitchers. More importantly, it highlights his loyalty to the Dodgers and their commitment to allowing him to finish his storied career on his own terms, potentially chasing another World Series title.
Trade on Every Game with Kalshi
Click Here to sign up to Kalshi — Free $10 when you sign up using our link or use code: ONTAPSEA. The only federally regulated prediction market in the US. Trade on real sports outcomes. Available in all 50 states.