Clayton Kershaw, a beloved figure in baseball, found himself donning a uniform once more as he participated in Team USA’s World Baseball Classic workouts earlier this week. Just months after leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a World Series title, their first back-to-back championship victory in 25 years, Kershaw embraced the opportunity to take the field again.
Standing amid the desert heat, Kershaw spoke about the bittersweet nature of this season. “Feels good,” he remarked, portraying the experience as a “bucket list thing” for him. His participation stands in stark contrast to his previous declaration at the championship rally, where he announced to fans his intention to watch the games from the stands.
Kershaw’s presence on the team could prove pivotal, especially given the current uncertainties surrounding the pitching lineup. While Team USA had originally planned on a robust rotation featuring pitchers like Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes, recent developments indicate Kershaw may be called upon for more significant roles, especially if the team faces challenges in maintaining a full roster. Notably, despite a decline in his fastball velocity to 89 mph last season, Kershaw finished with the highest winning percentage in the majors, showcasing his enduring skill on the mound.
The prospect of Kershaw facing off against superstar Shohei Ohtani is compelling, though Kershaw expresses humility about his abilities in this scenario, humorously outlining a game plan to avoid being hit hard. “It’s throw it, pitch away, play away, hope he flies out to left,” he quipped, indicating his focus on team success above personal accolades.
Despite the excitement surrounding this tournament, Kershaw emphasized that he does not desire to pitch beyond the WBC, reaffirming his contentment with his career’s conclusion after last year’s championship. He feels at peace with his decision and cherishes his role as a father to five children, navigating the logistics of family life while remaining involved in the sport.
Kershaw’s comments reflect his deep connections with former teammates and the general camaraderie that characterizes the Dodgers organization. He revealed that maintaining those relationships remains important, even if he is choosing to step away from spring training this year for personal reasons.
As Kershaw prepares for the upcoming challenges and cherishes this new experience, he exemplifies the spirit of baseball and the joy of transitioning from player to fan—promising to remain part of the game he loves, albeit in a different capacity. His journey, marked by remarkable achievements and heartfelt connections, continues to inspire fans and players alike.