Clayton Kershaw is one of the most recognizable names in Major League Baseball, and his earnings reflect his elite performance and marketability. How much does Clayton Kershaw make a year depends on his contracts, endorsements, and long-term deals spanning multiple teams.
This breakdown explores his salary history, team changes, and total compensation, backed by a clear comparison and focused context for baseball fans and analysts.
| Season | Team | Annual Salary | Contract Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Los Angeles Dodgers | $23.5 million | 1-year |
| 2015–2020 | Los Angeles Dodgers | $30.7 million average per year | 7-year extension |
| 2021–2023 | Los Angeles Dodgers | $36.5 million average per year | 3-year extension |
| 2024 | Texas Rangers | $25 million | 1-year deal |
| 2025 | Los Angeles Dodgers | $25 million | 1-year contract |
Salary Breakdown by Season and Team
2014 Season with the Dodgers
In 2014, Clayton Kershaw signed a one-year contract worth $23.5 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers, establishing himself as the ace of the rotation before securing long-term deals.
2015–2020 Extension
Kershaw agreed to a 7-year, $215 million extension with the Dodgers in late 2014, which heavily structured bonuses and no-trade clauses, raising his annual average to roughly $30.7 million over this period.
2021–2023 Later Extensions
Before the 2021 season, he added a 3-year, $110 million extension with the Dodgers, pushing his average annual earnings to around $36.5 million and reinforcing his status as one of the highest-paid pitchers in baseball.
2024 Move to the Texas Rangers
For the 2024 season, Kershaw signed a one-year, $25 million contract with the Texas Rangers, marking his first season away from the Dodgers in nearly a decade and reflecting his continued market value.
2025 Return to the Dodgers
Kershaw returned to the Dodgers in 2025 on a one-year, $25 million deal, illustrating his enduring appeal and the team’s commitment to competing at the highest level despite roster changes.
Career Earnings and Endorsements
Base Salary Trajectory
Kershaw’s career earnings from base salary exceed $200 million, with consistent year-to-year increases tied to performance escalators and luxury-tax-related bonuses embedded in his contracts.
Sponsorships and Business Ventures
Off the field, he has partnered with major brands, adding substantial income through endorsements, appearances, and business investments that elevate his total annual compensation well beyond his playing salary.
Comparisons to Other Top MLB Pitchers
Earnings in Context
When stacked against contemporaries like Max Scherzer and Gerrit Cole, Kershaw’s annual earnings remain at or near the top of the league, driven by a mix of performance metrics, market size, and long-term security.
Key Takeaways on Clayton Kershaw’s Earnings
- Clayton Kershaw has earned over $200 million in base salary during his MLB career.
- His annual salary has grown from $23.5 million in 2014 to around $36.5 million during peak extension years.
- Off-field endorsements and business interests add significantly to his total annual compensation.
- Moves between the Dodgers and Rangers highlight his sustained market value at the highest level.
FAQ
Reader questions
How much did Clayton Kershaw earn in 2024 with the Texas Rangers?
Clayton Kershaw earned $25 million in salary during the 2024 season with the Texas Rangers on a one-year contract.
What was the value of Clayton Kershaw’s extension with the Dodgers signed before 2021?
Before the 2021 season, Clayton Kershaw signed a 3-year, $110 million extension with the Los Angeles Dodgers, averaging about $36.5 million per year.
Did Clayton Kershaw have any no-trade clauses in his contracts? Yes, Clayton Kershaw’s long-term Dodgers contracts included structured no-trade clauses, giving him significant control over where he could be moved during his tenure with the team. What brand partnerships contribute to Clayton Kershaw’s off-field income?
Clayton Kershaw earns additional income through partnerships with major brands, including sportswear and beverage companies, along with appearances and business ventures that boost his overall compensation.