The Los Angeles Dodgers obviously want to give legendary left-handed pitcher Clayton Kershaw a proper send-off after a sensational near two-decade run with the franchise. At the same time, they are extremely motivated to win their second straight World Series championship. Many fans are wondering if both goals can be accomplished, or if sentiment might clash with ambition in this specific instance.
Based on the latest news, LA believes No. 22 can help the team stay on top. Longtime manager Dave Roberts revealed that Kershaw will be on the Dodgers’ roster for their best-of-seven, season-ending showdown with the Toronto Blue Jays, according to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez.
Following a rough relief outing versus the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 3 of the National League Division Series, it was unclear if Kershaw would receive another opportunity to take the mound before he officially retires. The Dodgers kept the 37-year-old on the active squad for the NL Championship Series, but they did not use him in their sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers.
A solid showing against the Blue Jays en route to another title would be the perfect way for Kershaw to end his final October run. But does he still have what it takes?
The 2014 MVP, three-time Cy Young Award winner, and five-time ERA king posted a respectable 2025 regular season, recording a 3.36 ERA with 84 strikeouts and a .663 OPS against in 112 2/3 innings of work. He remains a pillar of consistency for large stretches of time.
However, the playoffs have often been a source of adversity for him. Clayton Kershaw owns a 4.63 ERA in almost 200 postseason innings. That statistic will be the unfortunate “but” people mention when reflecting on an otherwise absurdly amazing MLB career.
It would be quite poetic if the future Hall of Famer and all-time great southpaw could ride off into the sunset after thriving in the Fall Classic. Fans across Los Angeles are undoubtedly hoping to witness just that as Kershaw looks to add one final championship to his illustrious resume.
https://clutchpoints.com/mlb/los-angeles-dodgers/dodgers-news-final-decision-clayton-kershaw-world-series-roster-status