Clayton Kershaw, who retired after the previous Major League Baseball season following a legendary career, has made a surprising decision to return to competitive play by joining Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. This move comes less than a year after he finished his career as a World Series champion and a crucial reliever in the final game.
Kershaw’s return to the international stage with Team USA highlights his desire to contribute once more, despite stepping away from regular season play. The World Baseball Classic, set to begin pool play on March 5 and conclude with the finals on March 17, provides the stage for this anticipated comeback.
Reviewing Kershaw’s Final MLB Season and His Role on Team USA
In his last big league season, Kershaw posted a 3.36 ERA across 112⅔ innings, demonstrating he still maintains effectiveness on the mound. Although he struggled in the National League Division Series and was sidelined for the NL Championship Series, Kershaw delivered a pivotal out in Game 3 of the World Series, proving he can still rise to big moments.
Despite this, Kershaw is not expected to return as a starting pitcher for Team USA. The roster is loaded with emerging stars such as Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes, alongside seasoned All-Stars Logan Webb, Joe Ryan, and Matthew Boyd. The team also boasts young talents like Nolan McLean and Mets teammate Clay Holmes, who are all preparing for the rigors of a full MLB rotation in the 2026 season. Kershaw’s role will likely be limited but meaningful.
Insights on Kershaw’s Strategic Participation and Team Composition
Kershaw himself downplayed the prospect of pitching to Shohei Ohtani in a meaningful game, humorously stating,
“I am not going to pitch to Shohei (Ohtani) in any meaningful game,”
and adding,
“I’ll tell you that right now. He would hit it so far off me right now.”
This remark emphasizes their former teammate friendship and Kershaw’s current pitching mindset.
The Team USA bullpen is stocked with talent including Mason Miller, David Bednar, Griffin Jax, Garrett Whitlock, Garrett Cleavinger, and Gabe Speier. This deep relief corps, combined with a powerful lineup, ensures USA will be a formidable contender in the tournament.
Potential Impact of Kershaw’s Return on the World Baseball Classic
Kershaw’s decision to join Team USA adds an intriguing layer of experience to an already star-studded roster. While much of the team is focused on developing for the upcoming MLB season, his presence brings leadership and veteran savvy. Observers will closely watch how USA’s management integrates Kershaw’s skills, whether in relief roles or situational appearances.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic’s schedule sets up intense competition across March, with Team USA aiming to leverage its depth and Kershaw’s late-career firepower to make a strong tournament run. His involvement may also inspire renewed fan enthusiasm and elevate the prestige of international baseball rivalry.
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