The Dodgers veteran Clayton Kershaw made his final regular-season start on Friday. That was the end of his most illustrious pitching career. Fans cheered wildly at the stadium for the expected future HOF as Kershaw played against the Giants. He announced his retirement just a day prior and left the field as a true icon, where his 2.10 ERA in 61 starts vs. the Giants is the 3rd lowest against a single opponent in the Live Ball Era.

The ceremony honoring the legend highlighted Clayton Kershaw’s remarkable achievements, from walking with the Dodgers to three World Series celebrations to amassing more than 3,000 strikeouts in his career. Amid this backdrop, the 36-year-old utility infielder Miguel Rojas spoke candidly about his own future with the team.

Having rejoined the Dodgers in 2023 after being with the Marlins from 2015 to 2022, the veteran has been a versatile presence in the infield. He has time and again stepped in for injured stars like Max Muncy and filled roles across multiple positions. Now, addressing questions related to his free agency, Rojas said to Dodgers Nation, “This is going to be my first priority, to sign here with the Dodgers for one more year and then after that, we’ll reevaluate where my career is going to go.”

Rojas emphasized his readiness and commitment to the team, saying, “I’m going to be ready to go out there every single day. If it’s 2nd base, 3rd base, shortstop, 1st base, whatever the situation might be. I’ll be ready to go, and I’m excited to give it another chance to win another World Series and hopefully play another year for the Dodgers.” The star’s statement underlines his role as a steady veteran presence and a vital piece of Dave Roberts’ roster, specifically, with the postseason looming.

While he could get a multi-year deal elsewhere given his versatility and experience like 3782 AB, .260 AVG, and 363 RBI in his career, Rojas remains focused on one thing: Walking with the Dodgers and chasing back-to-back World Series titles. For GM Brandon Gomes, having a veteran like Rojas makes planning for the upcoming season easier, ensuring the Dodgers retain a core of elite stars.

As Rojas shows interest in rejoining the Dodgers, his effect on and off the field is already being recognized in a big way.

Miguel Rojas wins the 20th Annual Roy Campanella Award

The Dodgers made their feelings explicit, voting Miguel Rojas as the awardee of the 20th annual Roy Campanella Award for a second straight year. The award was given to the Dodger who exemplifies the best leadership and inspirational spirit, placing Rojas in the company of elites like Clayton Kershaw, Chase Utley, and Justin Turner. At the age of 36, Rojas emerged as both franchise leader and a defensive stalwart, a mix that earned him the respect of his team members and coaches alike.

For Rojas, this 2025 season has been a testament to his value: Stellar infield defense across various positions, unrivaled presence in the dugout, and timely hitting. Apart from stats, his leadership rituals, including post-series toasts and regular mentoring of young stars like Gavin Lux and Hyeseong Kim, have solidified his role as a Dodgers’ true “glue guy.” For a franchise transforming after the farewell of Kershaw, his influence carried more weight as the Dodgers hunt another postseason sprint.

Miguel Rojas may not have the superstar resume of Clayton Kershaw, but his versatility, leadership, and commitment have made him a vital piece for the Boys in Blue. As Los Angeles turns the page from one legendary era to another, Rojas personifies a steady influence in each of the championship clubhouse’s needs. His focus is on returning in 2026, and with his recent Roy Campanella Award honor, the veteran infielder is proving that his influence goes far beyond the scoreboard. The Dodgers nation must be excited because his story with the team is far from the end.