Baseball fans got a real treat during this year’s MLB All-Star Game. Los Angeles Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw put on a show, both pitching and joking around, and it’s one of those nights people will talk about for a while.
Even as his career winds down, Kershaw keeps showing why he’s one of the best to ever do it. This might’ve been his last All-Star appearance, and he brought that competitive spark—and a little mischief—that fans love.
From a sharp inning on the mound to a mic’d-up moment that blew up online, Kershaw’s night had everything. There’s a lot to unpack from what could be his All-Star finale.
Clayton Kershaw’s “Legend Pick” All-Star Appearance
This year, Kershaw wasn’t just any All-Star—MLB commissioner Rob Manfred picked him as a “Legend Pick.” That’s a pretty big deal, and it says a lot about the 37-year-old’s impact on the game.
He took the mound with the kind of presence that Dodgers fans (and let’s be honest, baseball fans everywhere) have admired for years. You could feel the respect in the stadium.
Some players tighten up in these big moments, but not Kershaw. He pitched his inning with the same drive that’s defined his career, mixing focus with a bit of fun.
That attitude was on full display under the lights at Truist Park in Atlanta. He didn’t seem fazed at all.
A Picture-Perfect Inning: Command Meets Clutch Defense
Kershaw got the ball in the second inning, facing a lineup stacked with power—like Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who’s not just last year’s Home Run Derby champ but also this season’s home run leader. The crowd buzzed with anticipation.
Raleigh swung hard and sent a 101.9 MPH line drive screaming toward the outfield. For a second, it looked like a sure hit.
But Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker had other plans. He slid in and snagged it, robbing Raleigh and syncing up perfectly with Kershaw’s pitch.
With Raleigh out, Kershaw didn’t waste time. Next up was Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Kershaw struck out Guerrero in just three pitches—classic Kershaw, really. He wrapped up his inning without a hitch, reminding everyone why his name’s been synonymous with elite pitching for more than 15 years.
The Viral Mic’d-Up Moment That Stole the Show
Honestly, Kershaw’s pitching was great, but his next move might’ve been even better. As he headed back to the dugout, he grabbed a mic and dropped a line that instantly went viral.
He looked at Raleigh—the guy Tucker just robbed—and called out, “Suck it, Big Dumper!” That’s Raleigh’s nickname, by the way. It’s the kind of trash talk you don’t expect from Kershaw, which made it even funnier.
Fans ate it up. Social media blew up, with people from both teams sharing the clip.
Dodgers fans loved seeing Kershaw’s sharp wit, and Mariners fans couldn’t help but laugh, even if it stung a little for Raleigh. It was one of those moments that just makes baseball fun.
A Blend of Competition and Comedy
That quick exchange summed up what makes the All-Star Game special. Sure, the stakes aren’t sky-high, but the stars are out there having a blast and keeping fans entertained.
Kershaw nailed it—he delivered on the mound and gave everyone a reason to smile. The playful rivalry with Raleigh might not be over either, since the Dodgers and Mariners meet again in late September. That’s a matchup to keep an eye on.
A Farewell to a Living Legend?
Nothing’s official, but a lot of people think this could be Kershaw’s last All-Star Game. If so, what a way to go out.
He showed off the consistency, smarts, and personality that have made him a star. Whether he’s pitching or cracking a joke, Kershaw’s still at the top of his game—at least in spirit.
Final Takeaway
Clayton Kershaw’s flawless inning and his viral mic’d-up quip made the 2023 MLB All-Star Game unforgettable. He brought a mix of athletic brilliance and genuine personality that fans can’t help but love.
Baseball fans know every chance to see Kershaw pitch is special. With some friendly competition bubbling up between Kershaw and Raleigh, the Dodgers-Mariners series in September suddenly feels like must-watch baseball.
Here is the source article for this story: Mic catches Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw’s jab at Cal Raleigh during MLB All-Star Game
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