Clayton Kershaw free agent rumors: What’s the latest?

With Clayton Kershaw being a free agent this offseason, where will the superstar lefty end up signing? 

One of the hottest free agents out there is no question star left-handed pitcher Clayton Kershaw. After another strong campaign in 2021, the Los Angeles Dodgers are hoping to re-sign Kershaw. However, there are several teams hoping to try get him out of the City of Angels.

Rumors have stated that Kershaw is keen on potentially going back to LA, but he could be open to a fresh start elsewhere too. With that said, what’s the latest with Kershaw and when will he end up making his decision?

Rangers are interested in bringing Clayton Kershaw back home to Texas

Could a move to a different American League squad be on the way? In a recent interview, Texas Rangers manager Chris Woodward confirmed that the AL West club has been in contact with Kershaw this fall.

“I know we’ve been in contact with him”, Woodward said. “Kershaw and I are obviously good friends, and we believe the same things as far as how to play the game, how to prepare. I’ve been honored to be around him for the three years I was in LA. If he wants to come back to Texas, I’m pretty sure we’ll welcome him there.”

Kershaw indeed grew up in Texas and the majority of his family is still there. Could that fact alone be enough to get him to sign with the Rangers? It’s tough to say. Kershaw is loved in Los Angeles and he’s been there since 2008, winning 185 games and posting a 2.49 ERA.

Kershaw, who has been to the All-Star Game eight times, also helped the Dodgers win the World Series in 2020. Will he back in 2022 to try and get that job done again, or will the Rangers/someone jump in to steal him away? We hope to find out soon.