After announcing his retirement last September following an 18-season career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw has shocked fans by revealing plans to participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). The announcement came shortly after the Dodgers secured their third World Series championship in four years, capping a memorable end to Kershaw’s Major League Baseball journey.
Kershaw confirmed his decision to participate in the WBC as Team USA unveiled their roster, with pool play set to begin in Houston in early March. He explained that this lighter preparation period aligns well with his current offseason condition and desire to compete internationally once more.
Preparing for the Classic with a Cautious Approach
Kershaw, who is not pitching during the current MLB season, described his training routine as limited but sufficient to sustain him through the tournament duration.
I am throwing just enough to make it for 10 days,
he said.
I’m not pitching this season — so I figured this is the perfect time to try the WBC. I really want to be a part of it.
– Clayton Kershaw, Pitcher
The World Baseball Classic is scheduled to run from March 5 to 17, with Japan entering as the defending champions from the 2023 event. Team USA historically captured the WBC title in 2017 after defeating Puerto Rico.
Background on Kershaw’s WBC History and Career Achievements
In 2023, Kershaw was unable to participate in the WBC due to insurance complications related to his $20 million Dodgers contract. This year’s return marks a significant shift as he joins a strong Team USA roster featuring players such as Aaron Judge, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Paul Skenes, along with Chicago Cubs newcomer Alex Bregman.
Kershaw’s career highlights include 3,052 strikeouts, three Cy Young Awards (2011, 2013, 2014), and three World Series titles (2020, 2024, 2025), all earned while playing exclusively for the Dodgers.
Anticipated Impact and Future Prospects
Kershaw’s decision to compete in the 2026 World Baseball Classic adds a compelling storyline to the event, raising questions about his future in baseball and his role on a Team USA squad loaded with talent. His presence could significantly influence the tournament’s competitiveness and draw additional attention to the classic.
As the WBC approaches, observers will be watching closely to see how Kershaw balances his physical readiness with the intensity of international competition, and whether this unexpected return signals more to come from the Dodgers legend.
