PHOENIX -- As pitchers and catchers reported to spring training in Arizona, the Dodgers re-signed Kiké Hernández and Clayton Kershaw to one-year deals.
The signings of Hernandez and Kershaw have concluded the Dodgers' off-season acquisitions as they head into spring training. Hernandez has signed a one-year deal worth $6.5 million. To create space on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers are transferring right-hander Gavin Stone to the 60-day injured list.
Two weeks ago, the Dodgers hosted their annual FanFest at Dodger Stadium. During the event, Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman and General Manager Brandon Gomes spoke with the media. They mentioned that the team is in negotiations to bring back Hernández, and they expressed optimism that both parties would reach an agreement. That agreement was finalized on Super Bowl Sunday. The playoff hero aims to help the team repeat their success and become the first team to do so in 25 years.
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Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Kike Hernandez (8) celebrates scoring a run in the ninth inning at Coors Field.
This could have been the second time that Hernandez walked away as a free agent, but the Dodgers made sure to keep the fan favorite in Los Angeles. During free agency, the New York Yankees expressed interest in signing Hernandez, but he wasn't interested in playing for the team he had just defeated in the World Series.
Kershaw's contract is not yet official because he still needs to complete a physical examination. Kershaw is currently at Camelback Ranch, where he was seen playing catch. This marks his 18th season with the Dodgers as he heads towards a future in the Hall of Fame. Kershaw is 32 strikeouts away from reaching 3,00 for his career.
Clayton Kershaw is at Camelback Ranch. pic.twitter.com/lFubfsGauf
— Dylan Hernández (@dylanohernandez) February 11, 2025
The Dodgers made several additions, including the return of former general manager Farhan Zaidi. Zaidi had initially left the organization in 2018 to serve as the President of Baseball Operations for the San Francisco Giants. However, he was relieved of his duties this offseason when the Giants hired Buster Posey to take over the position.
Zaidi will act as a special advisor for the Dodgers and will assist owner Mark Walter with his other sports interests.
All pitchers and catchers reported to spring training on time including Shohei Ohtani, Roki Sasaki, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Dustin May were all present as they began their bullpen sessions.
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Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17) warms up during spring training camp.
For May, the last few years have been challenging, as he has only made 20 starts since being a part of the 2020 World Series team. The Dodgers and May have agreed to a one-year deal worth $2.1 million back in November to remain in Los Angeles. He has undergone two Tommy John surgeries since 2021 and was set to return to the mound last summer.
However, May also dealt with a tear in his esophagus, which required surgery this past July. Although he is ready to begin spring training, he is not expected to be ready for Opening Day.
The Dodgers are entering the 2025 season with one of the most talented pitching staffs ever assembled. Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Bobby Miller are expected to be key components of the six-man rotation that Dodger manager Dave Roberts plans to implement this season.
While the six-man rotation is not yet determined, spring training is underway, and we will soon receive answers to our questions about the Dodgers' pitching staff.