The Maltese Falcons were looking to bolster their starting rotation, especially after the news of their ace Zack Wheeler potentially being delayed out of the gates due to shoulder soreness. GM Gary Falzon and Assistant GM Erik Nielsen found that shot in the arm Monday as they announced the acquisition of left-hander Clayton Kershaw (3/$31) from the Asti Grape Stompers in exchange of a 2022 4th Round Pick (47th Overall).
The Los Angeles Dodgers opened Spring Training with the return of Kershaw, who re-signed with the team on a one-year contract for the 2022 season. Kershaw’s deal reportedly is worth $17 million and includes incentives.
The soon-to-be-34-year-old added he was fully recovered from left forearm/elbow trouble that prevented him from pitching in the postseason last year. However, Kershaw revealed it wasn’t until January 1 that he began throwing.
“Wasn’t really sure how it was going to react, but thankful I feel great now. I’m throwing live [Monday] so it will be a good assessment to see where I’m at and keep progressing from there,” he explained. So far so good as Kershaw came out of the live session with positive reviews.
He is projected for 417.0 points, a mark he can easily cross if he can reach the 25 start mark this season.
Kershaw will slot behind Wheeler and in front of Ranger Suarez and Tyler Mahle in a strong Falcons rotation.