Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw undergoes foot and knee surgeries, plans to 'crush some rehab' and return in 2025
The 36-year-old free-agent pitcher said last week that he is a "Dodger for life"
Clayton Kershaw confirmed via Instagram on Thursday that he underwent surgeries on his foot and knee this week and plans to return next season following rehab.
The veteran pitcher, who is currently a free agent after declining his 2025 option with the Los Angeles Dodgers, needed to have the meniscus in his left knee fixed. The operation on his foot was to address a bone spur, arthritis and a ruptured plantar plate.
"Had surgery yesterday on my foot and knee! Thank you Dr ElAttrache and Dr Jung for fixing them! Planning to crush some rehab and be good as can be come next year.
"Thanks for all the prayers and support! World Series champs!"
After missing the 2024 postseason due to injury, Kershaw was with the Dodgers as they won the World Series and took part in the celebrations through downtown Los Angeles. While he's free to sign with any MLB team, the 36-year-old has made it known that he wants to be a "Dodger for life."
“I don’t know [how free agency will play out],” Kershaw said. “I’ll be back, somehow. I don’t care. I’ll be back.”
With the surgeries complete, there is not yet a timeline for Kershaw to return to the mound.
Kershaw, a three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, last pitched Aug. 30 and made seven starts for the Dodgers in 2024, the fewest in a season in his 12-year career.
