Follow LA Observed on Twitter here
The Dodgers and ace pitcher Clayton Kershaw have reportedly agreed on a seven-year, $215 million deal that gives the left-hander an out clause after five years, the Dodgers beat writers are reporting based on "sources with knowledge of the situation." I take this to mean they are certain of the details because someone involved released the news, but cannot be named on the record.
This contract will be the richest one ever signed by a pitcher. It also makes Kershaw the first player to get a contract with an average annual value over $30 million. Kershaw, 25, was due to become a free agent at the end of the coming season. He has won two National League Cy Young Awards in the last three seasons and has been honored for his charitable work. Kershaw and his wife, Ellen, founded an orphanage in Zambia and co-wrote a book, "Arise: Live Out Your Faith and Dreams on Whatever Field You Find Yourself."
"Sandy Koufax and Don Drysdale pitched in the wrong era," notes ESPN's David Schoenfield. "But here's the thing: $215 for seven years actually sounds ... clear the throat ... reasonable. Even if it does make Kershaw the first player who will average $30 million per year over the life of his contract.....Enjoy him, L.A."
