Clayton Kershaw confirmed on Instagram on Thursday that he underwent surgery on his foot and knee this week and plans to return next season after rehabilitation.
The veteran pitcher, who is currently a free agent after declining his 2025 option with the Los Angeles Dodgers, knew he needed to have the meniscus in his left knee repaired. The surgery on his foot was to address a bone spur, arthritis and a torn plantar plate.
“Had surgery on my foot and knee yesterday! Thank you Dr. ElAttrache and Dr. Jung for fixing it! I plan to crush some rehab and be the best I can be next year.
“Thanks for all the prayers and support! World Series Champions!”
After missing the entire 2024 postseason due to injury, Kershaw was with the Dodgers when they won the World Series and took part in the festivities throughout 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.”
“Don’t know [how free agency will play out]Kershaw said. “I’ll be back one way or another. I don’t care. I’ll be back.”
Now that the surgery is over, there is no timeline for Kershaw to return to the mound.
Kershaw, a three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, last pitched on August 30 and has made seven starts for the Dodgers, the fewest in a season in his 12-year career.