Los Angeles Dodgers: Why the Clayton Kershaw Deal Was a Steal

As we knock on the door of Opening Day 2012, pitchers and catchers have reported to spring training. Reigning Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw shows up to Dodger camp with a fresh, two-year deal worth $19 million that avoided arbitration between him and the club.

With the signing, the Dodgers are sure to have Kershaw and center fielder Matt Kemp on their roster together for at least the next three seasons. Now that's an ownership move the fans can get behind.

But some people, myself included, are shocked at how little money Kershaw is getting. In 2011, he won the pitching triple crown and the hardware while making just $500,000. Now, top-tier pitchers are getting north of $20 million a season. There is no doubt that Kershaw is one of the best in baseball, but the Dodgers got a great deal with that extension.

There are plenty of reasons why the deal is a ridiculous steal for Los Angeles. Read on to find out why.

He's Young

Kershaw is turning 24 during spring training this year, and he's already put together a Cy Young season. The guy is still three or four years away from hitting his prime, yet he pitches like a seasoned vet. The fact that the money-conscious Dodgers were able to steal him for three more years when he'll likely just be improving is incredible.

He's Got the Intangibles

The Dodgers' ace is a smart guy. He can out-pitch a hitter, sure. But he's constantly out-thinking them too. At his young age, Kershaw has already become a great role model and clubhouse guy and has earned the respect of his peers. Not to mention he plays with a burning desire to win — his passion is evident every time he takes the mound.

He's Dominated the Giants

We Dodger fans don't like that San Francisco team very much, if you haven't heard. Kershaw has made the rivalry a little easier, going 4-0 against Tim Lincecum last year and is 5-1 with a 1.26 ERA against the Giants in his career. There is nothing more important to the Dodger fanbase than beating the Giants, so locking up a terminator like Kershaw for so cheap is a huge win for L.A.