Clayton Kershaw announced at a press conference that after 18 seasons with the Dodgers, he will hang up his spikes at the end of this year.
The veteran left-hander, with a choked voice, announced: “this is as far as I go, I’m going to retire“.
Few but forceful words that are full of emotions for the closing of a brilliant cycle for the Dodgers pitcher.
Reactions from teammates and rivals to Clayton Kershaw’s retirement
Kershaw’s decision generated endless reactions. David Price, who was his teammate in Los Angeles, did not hesitate to point out: “Kersh was the best pitcher of our generation.” A phrase that sums up the feeling of those who faced him or shared a locker room.
Reliever Adam Ottavino, who faced him for years with the Rockies, added: “I was always amazed at how he never seemed to be behind in the count against us.”
For his part, Rich Hill highlighted his human qualities: “The first thing you notice is what a great individual he is and how easy he is to deal with“.
For other players, like Tommy Pham, the key was the way he evolved: “Prime Kershaw had power and command. After that, although he lost velocity, he kept the tenacity. He’s the ultimate competitor.”
The combination of fastball, slider and curveball, with that peculiar mechanics that confused hitters, made Kershaw a unique pitcher. Ottavino summed it up well: “Very rarely did his starts seem out of control. He always seemed to be in control of the situation.”
Clayton Kershaw’s number with the Dodgers
Since 2008, Kershaw was synonymous with consistency. In an era where baseball changed constantly, he remained an absolute benchmark from the mound
His legacy includes three Cy Young Awards, an MVP, 11 All-Star selections, a Gold Glove, multiple ERA titles and a key role in two World Series wins.
Beyond the numbers, more than 3,000 strikeouts, 157 ERA+ and no losing seasons in 18 years, Kershaw leaves an indelible impact. His discipline, leadership and dedication make him a role model not only for the Dodgers, but for all of baseball.
Kershaw says goodbye but will always be remembered as the best pitcher of his generation and one of the most iconic faces of the Dodgers.
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