Clayton Kershaw confirmed via Instagram on Thursday that he underwent foot and knee surgeries this week and plans to return next season after rehab.
The veteran pitcher, who is currently a free agent after declining his 2025 option with the Los Angeles Dodgers, knew he would need to have the meniscus in his left knee fixed. The surgery on his foot was to address a bone spur, arthritis and a torn plantar plate.
“I had surgery on my foot and knee yesterday! Thank you Dr. ElAttrache and Dr. Jung for fixing them! I plan to do some rehab and be as good as possible next year.
“Thank you for all the prayers and support! World Series Champions!”
After missing the entire 2024 postseason due to injury, Kershaw was with the Dodgers as they won the World Series and participated in the celebrations around downtown Los Angeles. While he is free to sign with any MLB team, the 36-year-old has made it known that he is a “Dodger for life.”
“I don’t know (how free agency will play out),” Kershaw said. “I will return in some way. I don’t mind. “I’ll be right back.”
Now that surgery is over, there is no timetable for Kershaw to return to the mound.
Kershaw, a three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, last pitched on Aug. 30 and made seven starts for the Dodgers, the fewest in a season in his 12-year career.