The Los Angeles Dodgers are heading into a new era, and not just because of their deep postseason run. Two of their most respected veterans, Clayton Kershaw and Miguel Rojas, have signaled that their playing days are numbered.
Kershaw, a surefire Hall of Famer, has already confirmed that 2025 will be his final season. Now, Rojas, a crucial but often underrated piece of the Dodgers’ infield, has shared his own retirement timeline.
Rojas, 36, recently told MLB insider Doug McKain that he plans to retire after the 2026 season. “It’s been a wild ride. I’ve given it everything I’ve had in my four years here,” Rojas said. “Hopefully, I can finish my career here. Because I’m going to retire after next year.”
The veteran infielder, however, is headed for free agency this offseason, and while his heart remains in Los Angeles, his future is uncertain.
After re-signing with the Dodgers in 2023 on a one-year, $5 million deal, with a $5 million club option for 2025, Rojas made it clear that he hopes to stay in Dodger blue for one more season. “My first priority is to sign here with the Dodgers,” he said. “After that, we’ll re-evaluate where my career is going.”
On paper, Rojas’ stats don’t scream superstar. In 114 games this season, he hit .262/.318/.397 with seven home runs. But the numbers don’t tell the full story.
Rojas has been a defensive rock, playing all four infield spots and consistently ranking in the top percentile for Fielding Run Value. He’s also a respected clubhouse presence whose leadership has left a clear mark, especially on teammates like Mookie Betts.
The unsung infield leader
Rojas’ value was on full display during the NLDS. In Game 2, with the bases loaded, he made a pivotal slide to beat Trea Turner to third base, helping keep the game scoreless. Plays like that don’t just save runs, they set the tone. And off the field, his mentorship has been equally impactful.
Mookie Betts, who transitioned to shortstop this season, has credited Rojas for guiding him through the adjustment.
“Having Rojas by my side is the biggest blessing,” Betts said. “He knows the game-especially the shortstop position-better than anyone. A big part of my mental growth this year is thanks to Rojas.”
After the Dodgers clinched the division series, Rojas celebrated with none other than Kershaw, the two veterans sharing a beer shower. It was a fitting moment, as two leaders, possibly entering their final chapters, savored a victory that reminds everyone why they matter.
With Kershaw’s retirement looming, keeping Rojas in the clubhouse for one more season feels more essential than optional.
His glove, his leadership, and his unshakable presence might not lead highlight reels, but they help build championship culture, and that, the Dodgers know, is hard to replace.
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