Dodger pitcher Clayton Kershaw to call it a career after 18 years in Los Angeles, ending his tenure with over 3,000 strikeouts.
In a heartfelt announcement, Clayton Kershaw, one of the greatest pitchers in Los Angeles Dodgers history, has announced his retirement at the end of the 2023 season. The 35-year-old has spent his entire 18-year career with the Dodgers, making his big league debut on May 25, 2008.
Kershaw, a native of Dallas, spends his offseason in his hometown. He started his career with a bang, quickly establishing himself as one of the best fielding pitchers and a formidable force on the mound. His ERA of 2.54 is the lowest of any pitcher in the live-ball era since 1920, a testament to his consistent excellence.
Throughout his career, Kershaw has shown remarkable competitiveness and consistency, traits that have been praised by his manager, Dave Roberts. He is one of the three active pitchers with 3,000 strikeouts, a milestone he shares with Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander. Kershaw could be the last pitcher for a while to reach this milestone, often considered a surefire ticket for Hall of Fame enshrinement.
However, Kershaw's career has not been without its challenges. He has struggled with injuries in recent years, including a toe injury that forced him to end his 2024 season prematurely. This meant he missed the entire postseason, including the Dodgers' World Series win over the New York Yankees.
Despite these setbacks, Kershaw's teammates have consistently cited his work ethic between starts as inspirational. His wife, Ellen, and four children were present during his retirement announcement. Kershaw's wife is expecting their fifth child.
Kershaw's career record stands at 222-96, with 15 shutouts, leading active major league players. He threw his only no-hitter in June 2014 against Colorado. Kershaw's winning percentage is the highest among pitchers with at least 200 victories since 1900.
Before the National League added a designated hitter, Kershaw was known as a decent hitter. His teammates often looked to him for leadership both on and off the field.
On Friday night, Kershaw will make his final regular-season start at Dodger Stadium. His legacy in Los Angeles is secure, and he will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest Dodgers of all time.
Kershaw and Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford were teammates on their high school football team, a testament to their shared competitive spirit. As Kershaw hangs up his cleats, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the game he loves.
The Dodgers and their fans will surely miss Kershaw's dominance on the mound, but his impact will be felt for years to come.
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