So, you’re wondering how much Clayton Kershaw makes a year? Let’s be real—it’s a fun number to daydream about, especially if you’ve ever tried to throw a curveball in your backyard. The simple answer is that Kershaw’s annual salary has been sitting around $20 million in recent years, though it fluctuates with deferred money and bonuses. But really, who’s counting when you’re one of the best pitchers of a generation?
Right now, in 2025, Kershaw is playing on a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers worth a base of $10 million. Wait, that sounds like a pay cut, doesn’t it? Well, it is less than his peak, but the guy has earned nearly $300 million over his entire career—so he’s not exactly pinching pennies. Plus, that “low” salary is still more cash than most of us will see in a lifetime.
Why does he make so much?
Simple: because he’s really, really good at throwing a baseball. Kershaw has three Cy Young Awards, an MVP trophy, and a World Series ring—he’s basically a living legend in cleats. When you can make hitters look like they’re swinging at butterflies, teams are happy to pay you whatever you want.
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But here’s the cool part: his value isn’t just about the numbers on checks. Think about it—how much is it worth to sell out a stadium every fifth day? The Dodgers know that “Kershaw Day” is a huge draw, and that ticket revenue alone helps justify his paycheck. So yeah, he earns his keep.
Let’s make some fun comparisons
Your average American worker makes about $60,000 a year. Kershaw makes that in about two hours of work on game day—not bad for a guy who spends most of his time stretching and staring at a catcher’s glove. Heck, he could buy a new Prius every single day and still have millions left over.
Want another mind-bender? If you saved every penny of Kershaw’s annual $20 million salary, it would take you 333 years of earning the median U.S. income to catch up. That’s like saving from the Pilgrims landing at Plymouth Rock all the way until now. Crazy, right?
Clayton Kershaw's new contract with the LA Dodgers can make him a lot
The deferred money twist
Here’s where it gets interesting: Kershaw’s contracts often include deferred payments. He’s not getting all his cash right away—some of it comes later, even after he retires. For example, his old deal with the Dodgers has him still collecting checks years from now.
Why would he do that? It helps the team with the salary cap (called the luxury tax), and it gives Kershaw a steady income stream when he’s done throwing sliders. Smart guy—he’s basically playing moneyball with his own bank account.
What does he actually spend it on?
Good question! I mean, you probably imagine him buying a fleet of Lamborghinis, right? But Kershaw is actually known for being pretty low-key. He and his wife are big philanthropists—they run a foundation that helps kids and communities in need.
So while he could buy a private island, he’s more likely to donate to a food bank or sponsor a little league team. That’s the kind of chill that makes you respect him even more—he’s rich, but he’s not a jerk about it.
Los Angeles Dodgers Re-Sign Clayton Kershaw To Contract With 2025 Option
So, is $20 million a year too much?
If you ask a fan from another team, maybe they’ll groan and say “keep him healthy.” But from a business and skill standpoint? The Dodgers think it’s a bargain. You can’t put a price on having a guy who can shut down the Yankees in October—well, actually you can, and it’s $20 million.
And honestly, Kershaw could make way more if he wanted. He could chase a bigger contract in free agency or sign with a desperate team. But he’s loyal to the Dodgers, he loves Los Angeles, and he’s already set for life. So he takes a “team-friendly” deal—friendly meaning he still makes more in a month than you’ll make in a decade.
The bottom line
Clayton Kershaw makes around $10 to $20 million a year in salary right now, but his career earnings are a staggering $300 million-plus. That’s the kind of money that buys you a mansion, a library, and a lifetime supply of sunscreen for that California sun.
Next time you watch him pitch, just remember: every time he throws a strike, he’s earning about $10,000. Not bad for a few seconds of work. So, the real question is—are you jealous, or just impressed? I’m going with impressed.