Though retired from Major League Baseball, Clayton Kershaw will make a final appearance in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) as part of Team USA. However, he has confirmed that he does not expect to pitch against Shohei Ohtani, the two-way Japanese star and his former Dodgers teammate, during the tournament.
Kershaw’s Role Expected to Be Limited Due to Age and Injuries
Kershaw, who retired in September after securing his third World Series title, committed to representing the United States in the WBC set for March 2026. Given his recent struggles with injuries and the fact that he will be almost 38 years old by the time the WBC begins, Kershaw is likely to have a minor role on the team. He has publicly acknowledged that facing Ohtani would be unlikely.
Kershaw’s Comments on Potential Encounter with Ohtani
When questioned about the possibility of pitching against Ohtani, Kershaw was clear on his stance:
“I think something will have gone terribly wrong if I have to pitch against Team Japan in the finals or something,”
said Kershaw, according to Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register.
“I think we’ve got plenty of guys to get that guy out. Not me.”
Comparing Careers: Kershaw’s Past Peak Versus Ohtani’s Prime
Kershaw was dominant throughout his career, securing multiple MLB pitching titles and excelling in key stats such as ERA and WAR. However, his peak years were primarily in the mid-2010s. In contrast, Ohtani is currently at the height of his career, being a multiple-time MVP winner and leading the Dodgers to consecutive World Series appearances. Ohtani also topped MLB home run charts in both 2023 and 2024.
Other American Pitchers May Face Ohtani Instead
Though Kershaw likely will not face Ohtani, other talented pitchers on Team USA could have that opportunity. Among them are reigning Cy Young Award recipients Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes, who are on the roster and could engage in high-profile matchups during the event.
Overview of the 2026 World Baseball Classic
The tournament will begin on March 5 with a pool play format, where 20 teams will compete in four groups of five. The top eight teams will advance to the knockout rounds, culminating in the semifinals and championship games scheduled from March 15 to 17 in Miami. Team Japan, which has won three of the five previous WBC titles, narrowly defeated Team USA 3-2 in last year’s final.
Implications for Team USA and the WBC
Kershaw’s presence on Team USA boosts the team’s experience, even if his participation on the mound is limited. The chance to see emerging pitchers like Skubal and Skenes face international stars such as Ohtani adds significant intrigue to the tournament. As the 2026 WBC approaches, the dynamic between seasoned veterans and rising talent will be a key storyline for fans and analysts alike.
https://twitter.com/billplunkettocr/status/2011869540893016479
