Clayton Kershaw rumors: Rangers ‘first call’ after lockout a huge warning to Dodgers

The Texas Rangers aren’t wasting any time making a play for former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who could return home.

And by home, we mean the man is from Texas. It’s been a homecoming a literal offseason-and-a-half in the making.

The Rangers have been in on Kershaw since before the lockout. He’d be a solid addition to their rotation, and a future Hall of Famer to help pack the seats in Arlington. Texas’ ownership team was committed to putting a lot of money into the on-field product this offseason, and they haven’t disappointed.

Even before the lockout, the Rangers signed Marcus Semien and Corey Seager to add an elite pairing to the middle of their infield. The pitching staff is next, which for the most part is a young, up-and-coming group that could use a grizzled leader.

Enter Kershaw, stage left.

MLB free agency rumors: Clayton Kershaw to Rangers?

Kershaw has been seen around the Dallas area all offseason, not that it should necessarily be surprising. The Texas high school legend was spotted at a Dallas Mavericks game courtside, and even at Raising Cane’s as recently as Wednesday night. The man gets around.

2021 was considered a down year by Kershaw’s standards, but that’s because we’re used to seeing very few chinks in his armor. Last year, he wasn’t perfect, but the left-handed pitcher threw just over 121 innings, going 10-8 with a 3.55 ERA and 1.019 WHIP. For most pitchers, that’s an All-Star caliber season and one to build a contract around, as well.

For Kershaw, it could be a sign of the new normal — he’s no longer in the upper-echelon at his position. But that’s okay. At this stage of his career, Kershaw can offer the Dodgers, Rangers or any team interested a reliable veteran with playoff and World Series experience.

What more could Texas want to balance out their pitching staff?