After the World Series ends this autumn, Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw can become a free agent for the first time in his career. He has yet to tip his hand about his intentions, but his seven-year, $215-million contract features an opt-clause that can be exercised after the 2018 season. Kershaw could join a free-agent class that includes Washington slugger Bryce Harper, Baltimore shortstop Manny Machado and Cleveland closer Andrew Miller.
The Dodgers have already begun to operate with Kershaw's free agency in mind. When the organization acquired Matt Kemp from Atlanta in December, the team reset its luxury-tax number beneath the $197-million threshold so they can face less harsh penalties for spending next winter.