Clayton Kershaw, one of Major League Baseball’s most dominant and decorated pitchers, announced on Thursday that he’ll retire at the end of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ playoff run.
After 18 seasons, all spent in Dodger blue, Kershaw closes out a legendary career. He’s known for historic achievements, unwavering consistency, and a stubborn commitment to excellence—on and off the field.
The curtain’s dropping on an era. Fans, teammates, and even rivals are taking a moment to reflect on a legacy that’s going to stick in baseball’s memory for a long, long time.
Kershaw’s Remarkable Career Achievements
Kershaw debuted in 2008 and quickly became a face of Dodgers’ success. He dominated the mound and built up a list of accomplishments that’s honestly hard to believe sometimes.
An Elite Resume of Awards and Honors
Kershaw’s career is stacked with accolades that lock in his place among baseball’s best, including:
- Three Cy Young Awards – Marking him as the league’s top pitcher more than once.
- 11 All-Star selections – Proof of his staying power year after year.
- One Gold Glove Award – He could field his position with the best of them.
- National League MVP – Not many pitchers pull that off these days.
- Pitching Triple Crown – Led the league in wins, strikeouts, and ERA in a single season.
- World Series Champion – Finally got the ring in 2020.
He racked up over 3,000 strikeouts. Somehow, he never had a losing season.
His career ERA+ of 157 ties him with Pedro Martínez for the best among long-tenured starters. That’s wild consistency.
Impact on the Game and His Peers
Kershaw’s influence went way beyond numbers. Opponents dreaded facing him. Teammates looked to him for leadership and guidance.
Respected players around the league have pointed out his rare mix of excellence and humility. He made an impression, no question.
Respect from Fellow Players
David Price called Kershaw “the best pitcher of our generation.” Adam Ottavino remembered his laser-sharp command and relentless drive.
Rich Hill talked about Kershaw’s integrity—how he balanced intensity with humility, which you just don’t see every day among elite athletes.
To a lot of people, Kershaw showed what baseball could be: disciplined, respectful, and fiercely competitive. He inspired a whole generation of pitchers who watched him for more than just mechanics.
Choosing to Walk Away Gracefully
It’s tough for athletes to know when to stop, especially when they’ve still got it. But Kershaw didn’t hesitate—he chose to retire, putting his family and personal life first.
Still Effective at 37
Even in his last season, Kershaw showed he could still pitch at a high level. He posted a solid 3.53 ERA over 20 starts.
Sure, age and the grind of the season catch up to everyone, but he stayed valuable in the Dodgers’ rotation right up to the end.
Honestly, it’s rare to see someone walk away on their own terms, especially while they still have the respect of hitters across the league. That’s Kershaw, though—doing things his way.
Farewell at Dodger Stadium
Kershaw’s final regular season appearance will come at Dodger Stadium against the San Francisco Giants. It’s a fitting stage for the end of a career that’s captivated Los Angeles fans for nearly two decades.
This matchup, loaded with rivalry, promises a sentimental yet electric moment in Dodgers history.
When the postseason ends, so will the era of one of baseball’s greatest pitchers. Clayton Kershaw leaves not just as a champion, but as a symbol of excellence and humility.
He’s devoted himself to the game. His legacy will stick around in the Dodgers’ record books and the memories of fans.
He’s inspired countless players along the way.
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Here is the source article for this story: ‘Best pitcher of our generation’: Ex-Dodgers, opponents reflect on Clayton Kershaw and why it’s hard to retire
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