Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw may have hung up his Major-League uniform, but he hasn’t seen the last of a mound yet. The first ballot Hall of Famer will don the uniform of his country, and pitch in the World Baseball Classic for the United States, according to Katie Woo of The Athletic. The International Tournament runs from March 5-17 2026.
One last ride for Clayton Kershaw https://t.co/uYdI8oHpxj
— Katie Woo (@katiejwoo) January 15, 2026
In High Demand
The three-time Cy Young Award is not lacking for opportunities to be busy in his retirement. The, now, father of five, reportedly has a chance at a broadcast deal as NBC is pursuing Kershaw to a studio analyst for Sunday Night Baseball. For what it’s worth, the left-hander has yet to announce whether he is interested in the prospect.
Better With Age?
The 18-year veteran was one of the best to straddle the rubber on a mound. Kershaw has three World Series rings, a pitching Triple Crown, and is a member of the 3000 strikeout club. The 2014 Most Valuable Player in the National League was able to maintain an Earned Run Average in 2025. This is testament to Kershaw’s ability to adjust to his limitations. The left-hander has battled major injuries in the latter stages of his career, including enduring shoulder surgery. He has made light of the fact that his velocity has taken a dip in recent years. His fastball rarely reached above 90 mph. Yet he was still able to have success. Kershaw leads all starting pitchers in Wins Above Replacement in the modern era.
Role Reversal
It is unclear what role Kershaw will play in the WBC. The 38-year old spent the vast majority of his career as a starter. However, he shored up a leaky bullpen in the 2025 postseason. Whatever way he contributes, Kershaw has already proven his worth as a Major Leaguer and a mentor to his teammates.
It will be incredible to watch this one last outing before he resides in Cooperstown
Top Image Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
