Rivalries in sports don’t usually allow for soft moments. Giants vs. Dodgers has been one of baseball’s sharpest battles for decades, a matchup built on bitterness, heartbreak, and bragging rights. But Friday night at Dodger Stadium, the Giants broke tradition. Before facing Clayton Kershaw in what is expected to be his final regular-season home start, San Francisco took a moment to honor the very pitcher who has tormented them for nearly 20 years.
Hours before first pitch, the Giants’ official X account posted a short but striking message: “A remarkable competitor and one of the game’s greats. Congratulations on a legendary career, [Clayton Kershaw]!”
It was a surprising note of respect in a rivalry known for anything but kindness. Giants fans have lived through plenty of Kershaw heartbreak: a career 2.10 ERA in 61 starts against San Francisco, plus 421 strikeouts, the most by any pitcher against one team, according to MLB.com. Even manager Bob Melvin admitted the respect was well earned, telling The Athletic: “He’s a pro’s pro. He’s been doing it a long time, and he’s got respect around the league.”
Ohtani steals the spotlight
Once the game began, the Giants tried to spoil the moment. They even held a brief lead. But in the fifth inning, Shohei Ohtani made sure the night tilted toward the Dodgers. The two-time MVP launched a home run that looked effortless.
“It looked like he just flicked it,” Melvin said afterward. “That was the turning point in the game.”
The Dodgers went on to win 6-3, a blow to San Francisco’s slim Wild Card hopes. And while Kershaw didn’t have his sharpest outing, he still walked off the mound to cheers from a sold-out home crowd.
A rivalry shifting hands
For Giants fans, there’s a strange mix of relief and worry. Relief that Kershaw’s run of dominance is finally coming to an end. Worry because the future belongs to Ohtani, who joined Los Angeles last winter on the richest contract in sports history.
The Giants’ playoff chase continues, but Friday night was about more than standings. It was about pausing a rivalry long enough to recognize greatness. Kershaw may have been San Francisco’s greatest foe, but even enemies can deserve a tip of the cap.
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