The Los Angeles Dodgers are navigating a pivotal offseason as they assess key contract options for the 2025 season, including decisions on veteran players Austin Barnes, Clayton Kershaw, and Miguel Rojas. The organization faces a landscape of both team options for Barnes and Rojas, while Kershaw, a long-time ace of the pitching staff, holds a player option.
Adding to the narrative, Kershaw had previously left fans and analysts alike wondering about his future, with speculation surrounding the possibility of retirement after the 2024 season. However, he addressed these concerns last month, decisively ruling out such an option, much to the relief of Dodgers supporters.
As the clock ticked down, both players and teams were under pressure with a critical Monday deadline looming for making decisions on these contract options for the 2025 season.
In a move that reflects their confidence in his abilities, the Dodgers exercised their $3.5 million club option on catcher Austin Barnes, solidifying his position with the team for another season, according to insider Robert Murray of FanSided:
The Los Angeles Dodgers have exercised their $3.5 million club option on catcher Austin Barnes, according to a source familiar with the situation.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) November 2, 2024
In July 2022, Barnes signed a two-year contract extension valued at $7 million. This agreement guarantees his status with the team through 2024 and includes a significant $3.5 million club option for the coming year.
“It’s a great organization, obviously, and I’ve been part of some special teams,” Barnes reflected when he signed his extension. “I think that’s part of the future, too. It’s either World Series or nothing. That’s the kind of team I want to be part of.”
Barnes’ contract extension, while financially beneficial, also included performance incentives gauged by games played, with bonuses triggered at 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 games. Furthermore, the agreement mandated that Barnes contribute to charitable activities through the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation.
As the 2024 season marked his 10th year in Major League Baseball, all of which have been spent with the Dodgers, Barnes showed resilience as he continued in his backup role to Will Smith despite facing significant injury setbacks.
His season was marred by unfortunate incidents, including multiple fractures to his left big toe. The first of these injuries occurred in August, followed by a separate fracture as the season drew to a close. Both injuries placed Barnes on the 10-day injured list, temporarily sidelining him from competition.
Despite the challenges, Barnes made a return in time for the postseason, although his contributions were limited; he appeared in just one game during the playoffs, stepping in off the bench during Game 5 of the National League Championship Series due to Smith sustaining a hand injury.
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**Interview with Austin Barnes on His Contract and Future with the Dodgers**
**Editor:** Welcome, Austin! Thanks for joining us today. It’s an exciting time for you and the Los Angeles Dodgers as we head into the offseason. How does it feel to have the club option for 2025 exercised?
**Austin Barnes:** Thank you for having me! It’s a great feeling to know that the Dodgers have confidence in me. This organization has been a huge part of my career, and I’m thrilled to continue being a part of it.
**Editor:** You signed a two-year extension back in July 2022. How has that security affected your mindset on the field?
**Austin Barnes:** Having that security definitely allows me to focus on my game without the added pressure of contract talks. I can put all my energy into helping the team win. Plus, knowing I have the support of the organization just adds to my motivation.
**Editor:** Speaking of motivation, Clayton Kershaw’s decision to return next season must be reassuring for the team. What’s it like to play alongside a legend like him?
**Austin Barnes:** It’s truly special. Clayton is not just an incredible pitcher; he’s a leader in the clubhouse. His experience and work ethic set a standard for all of us. Having him back is big for the Dodgers, and I know the fans are excited too.
**Editor:** The Dodgers faced some tough decisions this offseason. How do you feel about the direction the team is heading?
**Austin Barnes:** I think we’re in a good place. We have a great core group, and with the upcoming season, it’s all about building on our past performances. We’ve got some amazing talent, and I’m eager to see what we can achieve together.
**Editor:** Lastly, with the offseason ahead, what are your personal goals for the 2025 season?
**Austin Barnes:** My main goal is to continue improving and contributing to the team’s success. I want to be a reliable player for our pitching staff and help them perform at their best. I’m also focused on my own development and staying healthy.
**Editor:** Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Austin! We’re looking forward to seeing what you and the Dodgers accomplish in the upcoming season.
**Austin Barnes:** Thank you! I appreciate the support, and I can’t wait to get back on the field.
