Kershaw opts out of Dodgers deal, still expected to re-sign

Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw became a free agent Monday when he opted out of the final year of his contract with the club, according to Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register.

Had he exercised the option, Kershaw would have earned a base salary of $5 million in 2025 with the potential for more through performance bonuses, according to Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times.

While he's now available to all 30 teams, Kershaw is expected to return to the Dodgers on a new contract in the near future. Following the team's World Series parade Friday, Kershaw said he intended to be a Dodger in 2025 but hadn't decided whether to sign a new deal or exercise his playoff option.

"I'll be back, somehow," the 36-year-old said Friday. "I don't care. I'll be back."

The future Hall of Famer also hinted at a return during the championship rally, finishing his speech by emphatically stating he's a "Dodger for life."

Kershaw returned to L.A. last winter on an incentive-laden two-year deal, knowing he'd only be ready in the second half following shoulder surgery. But he made just seven starts in 2024, putting up a career-worst 4.50 ERA with 24 strikeouts before suffering a season-ending toe injury.

The three-time NL Cy Young winner revealed Friday that he'll be undergoing surgery on his left foot and knee this winter. Kershaw didn't provide a timetable for when he might pitch again.

One of the most decorated pitchers of his era, Kershaw's 2.50 ERA is the lowest among active pitchers. He enters next season sitting 32 strikeouts shy of becoming the 20th hurler to reach 3,000 career Ks.