Retired Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw will compete for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, USA Baseball confirmed Thursday. Kershaw previously did not participate in the 2023 tournament due to insurance complications but will now make his tournament debut. The event is scheduled from March 5 to March 17 across Miami, Houston, Tokyo, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Kershaw’s Career and Recent Performance Overview
Kershaw declared his intention to retire following the 2025 Major League Baseball season. Over his 18-year MLB career—all with the Dodgers—he earned 11 All-Star selections, three Cy Young Awards, and the 2014 National League MVP honor. He helped lead the Dodgers to World Series titles in 2020 and 2025. In his last season, the left-hander recorded an 11-2 win-loss mark with a 3.36 ERA in 23 games. He also led active players with a 2.53 career ERA and 15 shutouts last season.
His career figures include an impressive 6.912 hits allowed per nine innings, ranking sixth all-time, and a .699 win-loss percentage that is fourth-best historically.
Team USA’s Roster and Preparations for the Classic
Kershaw will join a pitching staff featuring Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Clay Holmes, Griffin Jax, Nolan McLean, Mason Miller, Joe Ryan, Gabe Speier, and Logan Webb. The lineup includes prominent hitters such as Aaron Judge, Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Cal Raleigh. Recent additions to the roster include Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman and Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton. Speier and Jax were added earlier this week to the bullpen.
Given that the Classic occurs during spring training, Team USA’s pitchers are expected to be closely monitored with pitch counts.
Upcoming Schedule and Tournament Context
Team USA will play two exhibition games against the San Francisco Giants on March 3 and 4 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Their tournament opening match is against Brazil on March 6 in Houston. The championship game will take place on March 17 in Miami.
Significance of Kershaw’s Inclusion and Future Outlook
Clayton Kershaw’s participation brings added experience and prestige to Team USA’s pitching roster as they prepare for the highly competitive 2026 World Baseball Classic. His involvement underscores Team USA’s commitment to fielding a strong squad with a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent. The event will test player endurance and strategy, particularly with pitch limitations during spring training, shaping how the team approaches this prestigious international tournament.
