Clayton Kershaw has left shoulder surgery, says he’s “hopeful to return” next season

Clayton Kershaw has revealed that he recently underwent surgery on his left throwing shoulder, raising hopes for his return in the upcoming summer.

Kershaw, who shared a statement on Instagram, explained that the surgical procedure aimed to repair the gleno-humeral ligaments and capsule of his left shoulder, the same shoulder that troubled him in the second half of the 2023 season.

As a free agent this winter, Kershaw had expressed uncertainty about his future, including his potential return for a 17th MLB season.

For more information: Shaikin: Deep in the heart of Texas? Clayton Kershaw has big call to make

This announcement on Friday indicates his desire to continue playing in 2024, potentially leading to a return to the Dodgers, who have shown interest in re-signing the 35-year-old, or a move to his hometown team, the Texas Rangers, as his most likely options in the open market.

This is an ongoing story and will be updated.

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This story was originally published in the Los Angeles Times.