Clayton Kershaw, the iconic left-hander for the Los Angeles Dodgers, bid farewell to Dodger Stadium following a poignant 6-1 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 5 of the World Series. This game marked both the end of Kershaw’s illustrious 18-year career with the Dodgers and his final appearance at the ballpark he has called home throughout his tenure.
As Kershaw soaked in the atmosphere, his four children ran around joyfully, catching the balls he tossed their way, while his wife, Ellen, donned his No. 22 jersey and embraced him warmly, sharing the moment knowing they are expecting their fifth child.
Despite not playing in this decisive game, Kershaw remained a crucial presence throughout the postseason, having previously made a significant contribution from the bullpen in Game 3. There, in front of an electric crowd, he faced Nathan Lukes during a high-pressure moment, helping the Dodgers secure a hard-fought 6-5 victory after 18 innings.
Kershaw’s illustrious career is marked by three Cy Young Awards and numerous accolades, including a standout 2014 season where he finished with a 21-3 record, a 1.77 ERA, and 233 strikeouts, earning both Cy Young and Most Valuable Player titles for the National League that year.
On the day of his final home game, the Dodgers honored Kershaw with a video tribute that celebrated his remarkable career, highlighting key moments like his 3,000th strikeout earlier this season. The outpouring of love from fans and teammates demonstrated the deep connection he fostered over nearly two decades.
As Kershaw waved goodbye to the crowd, capturing the moment shared with fans on their phones, he exemplified not just the heart of a dedicated player, but also the spirit that has made him a beloved figure in baseball. The Dodgers now head to Toronto for Game 6 on Friday, facing elimination but carrying forward Kershaw’s legacy and the hope he inspired throughout his career.