Dark horse team aiming to lure Clayton Kershaw away from Dodgers

Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw may be wearing another team’s uniform for the 2023 season if an enticing offer can be made.

The Texas Rangers are reportedly keeping an eye on Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw in hopes that he won’t want to stay in Los Angeles. They’re pursuing multiple pitching options, but Kershaw seems to be their top choice as they’re patiently waiting to hear what direction he wants to go in free agency.

Kershaw has ties to Texas and graduated from the same high school as general manager Chris Young, so a move to Texas would bring him closer to friends and family as well. He has a lot to offer, and he’d be a great addition to the team.

He’s one of the most accomplished pitchers currently in MLB. He’s a nine-time All-Star and has earned several awards, including three Cy Youngs, a Gold Glove, a Triple Crown of Pitching and several Pitcher of the Month, Pitcher of the Year and MVPs, among many others.

He started his MLB career in 2008 with the Dodgers and played with them every season through 2022, so moving to another team would be a big change. However, it may be time for one considering Kershaw signed a one-year deal last season after contemplating an offer from the Rangers.

The Rangers tried to sign Clayton Kershaw for the 2022 season

It’s smart for Texas to play a game of patience for Kershaw. They need pitching upgrades badly, and Kershaw would be the perfect addition. His availability, his potential desire to explore other teams and his ties to Texas mixed with his incredible talent make him a perfect candidate for the rotation.

He’s showing no signs of slowing down either. Over his lengthy career, he’s produced an ERA of 2.48, batting average against of .209 and WHIP of 1.00. Typically, when players are around for so long, they’ll naturally start to decline in performance from age. This isn’t the case with Kershaw.

He had a beautiful season with an ERA of 2.28, BAA of .206 and WHIP of 0.94. This was one of his better seasons, and the Rangers could have a lot more success than they have had in the past with him on the team. They’ve already caught his eye by trying to sign him last season, and they’re smart for going after him again this season.