The MLB lockout sadly continues to rage on, as the work stoppage has now claimed the first two series of the year amid stalled negotiations between the owners and players. Right now, there's no telling when the season will start, or even when teams will be able to resume the free agency period, which has been frozen since the lockout. However, just because there's no good news coming out of baseball right now doesn't mean that fans can't continue to speculate, or rumors can't continue to swirl. Such rumors have been surrounding Los Angeles Dodgers star pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who is set to become a free agent and sign with a team if and when the lockout ends. Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young award winner, will definitely have a big market for his services. Kershaw was the subject of recent rumors involving the Texas Rangers, though they might not be a suitable fit for the southpaw, compared to other squads. That said, here are the three best free agent destinations for Clayton Kershaw after the MLB lockout.

3 Best Free Agent Destinations For Clayton Kershaw 

3. Los Angeles Angels 

This would make sense for multiple reasons. First, Kershaw would be able to stay in the Los Angeles area if he signed with the Angels. He also likely wouldn't have to worry about the designated hitter with a potential move to the American League, which would also make this move palatable. However, perhaps the biggest reason this would be a good fit is the rotation that Kershaw would be joining. With former New York Mets pitcher Noah Syndergaard already in LA, the Angels could potentially add the Dodgers ace to Shohei Ohtani and Syndergaard. That would be one of the better rotations in the AL West.

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2. New York Mets 

The Mets already swung for the fences- pun intended- during the free agency period before the lockout, splurging on players such as Max Scherzer and Starling Marte. But why stop there? With Jacob deGrom and now Scherzer, the rotation isn't particularly a need, though the Mets could still justify looking for another starter after losing Marcus Stroman and Noah Syndergaard. If the Mets added Kershaw to a rotation that already includes a combined five Cy Young awards, they would instantly become the favorites to win the National League. Money won't be an issue either, as owner Steve Cohen has showed that he is more than willing to open up his wallet. Kershaw will be there for the taking if the Mets want him.

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

There really hasn't been anything to suggest that Kershaw would want to leave the Dodgers. Los Angeles has been his home for all 14 years of his career. He's won a World Series with the Dodgers. If winning is Kershaw's priority, there might be no better destination than with the Dodgers. Kershaw, who struck out 10.7 batters per nine innings to go along with a 3.55 ERA this past season, still has plenty left in his arm at the age of 33. Money might not be his priority at this stage in his career. When push comes to shove, expect Kershaw to return home to Los Angeles if and when the lockout ends.