At 37, Kershaw makes a powerful comeback! Leading the Dodgers' rotation with an additional $8.5 million earned this year

Legendary left-hander Clayton Kershaw of the Los Angeles Dodgers has made a strong return this season. On the 22nd, he claimed his 8th victory of the year facing the Colorado Rockies, keeping a solid 3.13 ERA and remaining a key figure in the Dodgers' pitching staff. It has been revealed that he has earned all his incentive bonuses this season, increasing his salary by $8.5 million (approximately 58 million RMB).

According to veteran USA Today reporter Bob Nightengale, Kershaw’s total earnings this season have reached $16 million, including a $7.5 million base salary and $8.5 million in incentive bonuses. Nightengale noted that Kershaw received $1 million bonuses for each of his last four starts, plus an additional $4.5 million for being on the roster for at least 90 days. This contract was initially designed to protect against the risk of limited appearances due to health issues, but with all bonuses unlocked, it reflects his remarkably stable condition.

Last season, Kershaw only appeared in 7 games and chose to opt out of his contract during the postseason. In February this year, he re-signed with the Dodgers on a $7.5 million deal with incentives. This season, he has started 16 games, holding an 8-2 record, pitching 83.1 innings with 52 strikeouts and 21 walks, underscoring his critical value to the Dodgers.

Despite being 37, Kershaw continues to maintain a high level of performance through adjustments. His early-career signature curveball is no longer his sole weapon; now, his slider is the key pitch that suppresses hitters. Combined with years of experience and determination, he remains a steady presence in the starting rotation late in his career. While there were initial concerns about whether he could stay healthy for a full season after his comeback, his solid results and generous bonuses prove his indispensable importance to the Dodgers.