Despite recently retiring after 17 major league seasons with the Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw is making a surprising return to the mound by joining Team USA for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. This announcement was confirmed by MLB through a post on X, marking Kershaw’s first active participation in the international tournament.
Kershaw’s Previous World Classic Commitment and Withdrawal
While this marks Kershaw’s debut pitching in the World Baseball Classic, it is not his first involvement with the event. He initially committed to play in the 2023 tournament but withdrew before the games began without a public explanation. Speculation at the time suggested the decision was related to challenges securing appropriate insurance coverage to protect his investment in a long professional career. Now retired from the Dodgers, these insurance concerns are likely resolved, enabling his participation this year.
Reflecting on Kershaw’s Distinguished MLB Career
Clayton Kershaw concluded an extraordinary 17-season tenure as a Dodgers pitcher, during which he secured three championships and recorded a dominant 222-96 win-loss tally. With a career earned run average (ERA) of 2.54 and over 3,000 strikeouts, Kershaw’s legacy stands among the most remarkable in Dodgers history. His final season saw him post an 11-2 record, a 3.36 ERA, and 84 strikeouts, largely contributing in a supportive capacity as his role shifted.
Potential Matchups and Team Dynamics in the Classic
Participating in the World Baseball Classic offers Kershaw the unique prospect of facing off against former teammates, including Shohei Ohtani, who will represent Team Japan. Additionally, he may reunite with Will Smith, another ex-Dodger now competing for Team USA. For Kershaw, pitching for his country provides a meaningful extension of his career and a platform approaching Hall of Fame recognition.
Significance of Kershaw’s World Classic Appearance
Kershaw’s decision to compete in the World Baseball Classic shortly after retirement has intensified interest and hope among fans eager to see one of baseball’s premier pitchers perform on the international stage. This return underscores his enduring passion for the game and offers a compelling narrative as he prepares to represent Team USA among the world’s top talent. Observers will be watching closely to see how this new chapter influences his legacy and impacts the tournament’s competitive landscape.
His story isn’t finished yet … Clayton Kershaw will pitch for Team USA in the #WorldBaseballClassic,
MLB, via X.
His story isn’t finished yet …
Clayton Kershaw will pitch for Team USA in the #WorldBaseballClassic 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/dd80dK3zln
— MLB (@MLB) January 15, 2026
